Geranium wallichianum 'Rise and Shine'

Key Features: Blue flowers with a circular white centre and radiating veins. Similar to Rozanne but slightly darker. Comes up late (hence the name).

Height x Spread: 16 x 24 inches (40 x 60 cm)

Preferred Aspect: Partial Shade / Sun

Flowering Period: July - October

The wallichianum types all tend to have a relatively low growing, sprawling habit. They will clamber through other plants in your border if allowed, randomly popping up to show their colours. They come in all different shades of blue and pink and usually all have a distinctive white circle at the centre of the flower. They grow best in consistently moist soil in partial shade. The lightest part of a generally overcast area would be ideal. It should be noted that the wallichianum types are usually the last of all the Geraniums to surface in spring, so if you think you may have lost them over winter, stay patient as they may still be asleep! The good thing about this though is that they are also still flowering when all the others are winding down for the winter, providing late season colour and a let source of nectar for any pollinators if the weather remains mild.

Hardy Geraniums are one of the most diverse genera of herbaceous perennials. It is possible to find a Geranium to suit most parts of your garden, from the vast range of species and varieties available. They complement most other plants beautifully and, chosen wisely, can provide a continuation of colour in the garden from spring through to early winter.

Please note that the heights, spreads and flowering periods mentioned are approximate, as they can be affected by your soil type, light levels and other various conditions that may surround the plant.