The popular hardy geranium—often called Cranesbill—is one of the most versatile plants you can add to your landscape. While some varieties are total sun-worshippers, there are plenty of types that actually thrive in partial or even full shade. Before you start digging, it’s a good idea to know exactly where you want to plant them. If you’re looking for lush growth and a carpet of blooms, matching the specific geranium variety to your garden’s light levels is key.
Shade-Loving Geranium Varieties
Among the huge diversity of species, a few stand out as real champions for those darker corners of the yard. Take the Mourning Widow (Geranium phaeum), for example. This herbaceous beauty can reach up to 28 inches tall and produces stunning, deep purple-black flowers from May to June—even in full shade.
Another vigorous grower that isn’t afraid of the dark is the Knotted Cranesbill. It’s not picky at all about soil quality. Even under dense shrubs or trees, it creates a lush green carpet of shiny, deeply lobed leaves that contrast beautifully with its pale violet, dark-veined flowers.
More Great Options for Shady Spots
If you’ve got a north-facing patio or a dim corner in the garden, don’t worry—there are plenty of Cranesbill varieties that will brighten things up. Here’s a quick rundown of some favorites:
Bigroot Geranium (Geranium macrorrhizum)
This one loves anything from sun to shade and prefers loamy, moist soil. It typically blooms from May to July. Check out these cultivars:
- Czakor: Features bold magenta-red flowers.
- Spessart: Offers clean, white blooms.
- Ingwersen’s Variety: A lovely choice for pale pink flowers.
Knotted Cranesbill (Geranium nodosum)
This variety is super adaptable to sun or shade and likes well-drained, moderately rich soil. You’ll see blooms from June through August. Look for:
- Svelte Lilac: Beautiful lilac-pink blossoms.
- Whiteleaf: Striking magenta-red flowers.
Oxford Geranium (Geranium x oxonianum)
Another “grow-anywhere” plant that handles sun and shade equally well. It loves moist, nutrient-rich soil and blooms all summer long (June to August). Popular picks include:
- Claridge Druce: Lilac-pink flowers.
- Hollywood: Pale pink petals with distinct veining.
- Rosenlicht: Vibrant magenta-pink.
- Trevor’s White: A classic, pure white.
- Wargrave Pink: Famous for its unique salmon-pink hue.
Mourning Widow (Geranium phaeum)
As mentioned, this one is a shade superstar but can handle sun too, provided the soil is loamy and well-drained. It flowers in June and July. Two standout varieties are:
- Album: Pure white blooms that really “pop” in the shade.
- Samobor: Known for its moody, dark violet flowers and interesting foliage.
