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Description
Geranium Johnson’s Blue, also known as Cranesbill, is a herbaceous perennial plant that originated in Turkey and the Caucasus. It is a member of the Geranium family and is known for its striking blue-purple flowers that bloom from spring to summer. It is a popular choice for gardeners due to its long flowering period, easy maintenance, and ability to attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
---|---|
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Geraniales |
Family | Geraniaceae |
Genus | Geranium |
Appearance
Geranium Johnson’s Blue has deeply lobed, dark green leaves that grow up to 6 inches wide. Its flowers bloom in clusters on long, thin stems and have five petals that are a vibrant blue-purple color with dark veining. The flowers are approximately 1 inch in diameter and have a distinctive cup shape. The plant itself can grow up to 1.5 feet tall and wide.
Care Guide
Water
Geranium Johnson’s Blue prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist. During the growing season, water the plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Geranium Johnson’s Blue in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. During the growing season, you can also use a liquid fertilizer once a month to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil
Geranium Johnson’s Blue prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Geranium Johnson’s Blue prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent wilting.
Hardiness Zones
Geranium Johnson’s Blue is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geranium Johnson’s Blue is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, particularly in humid conditions. To prevent fungal diseases, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Geranium Johnson’s Blue is native to Turkey and the Caucasus, where it grows in meadows and rocky areas. In cultivation, it is commonly grown in borders, rock gardens, and cottage gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geranium Johnson’s Blue deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Geranium Johnson’s Blue is generally considered to be deer-resistant.
Q: Can Geranium Johnson’s Blue be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Geranium Johnson’s Blue can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How do I deadhead Geranium Johnson’s Blue?
A: Deadhead Geranium Johnson’s Blue by cutting back the spent flower stems to the base of the plant. This will encourage new growth and prolong the flowering period.
Q: Can Geranium Johnson’s Blue be propagated?
A: Yes, Geranium Johnson’s Blue can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Geranium Johnson’s Blue:
- Geranium Rozanne
- Geranium macrorrhizum
- Geranium sanguineum
- Geranium psilostemon
References
- “Geranium ‘Johnson’s Blue'” RHS Gardening, Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/71545/Geranium-Johnson-s-Blue/Details. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021.
- “Geranium Johnson’s Blue” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c800. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021.
- “Geranium ‘Johnson’s Blue'” White Flower Farm, www.whiteflowerfarm.com/geranium-johnsons-blue. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021.