Geranium versicolor

Geranium versicolor is a delightfully delicate cranesbill, sometimes known as pencilled geranium or striped geranium, and its flowers explain both names rather neatly. From late spring, and then intermittently through to autumn, funnel-shaped white blooms appear, each finely veined with pink as though sketched by a very patient hand. Reaching around 45cm tall, Geranium versicolor forms a semi-evergreen herbaceous clump with deeply lobed, pale green leaves, giving it a fresh, airy presence even when not in full flower. There is something quietly antique about Geranium versicolor, yet it sits beautifully in modern naturalistic plantings too, which is a useful talent.

Plant Geranium versicolor in sun or partial shade, where it can soften path edges, mingle through cottage borders or slip elegantly beneath roses and shrubs. Its pale flowers and dark pink markings make it especially lovely with silvery foliage, soft pink perennials, lavender-blue catmint or the dusky leaves of heucheras. Once settled, Geranium versicolor is pleasingly undemanding, bringing lightness, movement and a long season of understated colour without asking for much ceremony in return. The semi-evergreen foliage helps keep borders from looking bare in milder spells, while the repeat flowers add small, charming surprises as summer drifts on. For a striped geranium with grace, stamina and beautifully pencilled detail, Geranium versicolor is a very refined choice.