Shiny geranium
Geranium lucidum · Geraniaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant shiny geranium: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, glossy green, fragrant when crushed
- Flowering
- April to September, small pale pink to mauve flowers
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall, spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to approximately -10°C
- Origin
- Europe, North Africa and Middle East
- Soil type
- Well-draining, moderately fertile, tolerates poor soils
- Exposure
- Part shade to shade, tolerates moderate sun
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moderately moist during growth, without excess. Reduce watering in winter when the plant enters dormancy. Avoid standing water which promotes root rot. Water at the base of the plant to minimize fungal issues.
Exposure
The shiny geranium prefers part shade or partial shade, where it retains its glossy foliage. It tolerates moderate sun in cool climates. Indoors, indirect light is ideal to prevent excessive drying.
Soil
Use well-draining soil, lightly enriched with organic matter. This plant adapts to poor or even chalky soils. A balanced mix (potting soil + perlite or sand) works perfectly in containers.
Pruning and Cutting
Pinch stem tips in spring to encourage branching. Light pruning after flowering rejuvenates the plant and densifies its habit. Remove any dead or damaged parts as soon as they appear.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced, moderately dosed fertilizer once a month during the growing period (spring-summer). Reduce or stop all feeding in autumn and winter. A plant too rich in nitrogen produces more foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions: ensure good ventilation and avoid spraying the foliage. Aphids and spider mites can affect weakened plants. In case of problems, increase hygiene practices (leaf cleaning) before intervening.
Did you know?
The shiny geranium owes its scientific name 'lucidum' to its smooth, glossy leaves that reflect light. Traditionally used in European herbalism for its aromatic properties, it long accompanied folk remedies. Its leaves, delicately fragrant when crushed, inspired light infusions appreciated by ancient herbalists.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Meadow geraniumGeranium pratense
- Bloody Crane's-billGeranium sanguineum
- Rock crane's-billGeranium macrorrhizum
- French crane's-billGeranium endressii
- Purple-vein geraniumGeranium wallichianum
- Himalayan crane's-billGeranium himalayense
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.