Culture
Grow in medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, fertile soils. Remove spent flowers to encourage additional bloom, but consider leaving some of the later flowers so that the fluffy seed heads can form. Plants tend to struggle in the summer with the heat and humidity of the deep South (particularly south of USDA Zone 7). Some afternoon shade is best in hot climates such as St. Louis. Wet, poorly drained soils in winter can be fatal. Divide plants in spring as needed to maintain vigor. Foliage is evergreen in southern climates.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Geum is a genus of about 50 species from North and South America, Asia, New Zealand and Africa.
Genus name is the classical Latin name of the group.
'Cherry Cordia' is a clump-forming perennial that typically forms a basal foliage mount (to 6” high) of irregularly-lobed, hairy, 5-7 foliolate, medium green leaves with very large terminal leaflets. In late spring, erect, wiry, branching flowering stems rise above the foliage mound to 9-12” high carrying cymes of 5-petaled red flowers. Primary bloom occurs from May to June. With prompt deadheading, sporadic rebloom may occur throughout the summer, particularly in northern areas where summers are cool. Flowers are followed by fluffy seed heads.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. May be short-lived in heavy clay soils and/or hot summer climates.
Uses
Mass in borders or rock gardens. Foliage makes an attractive ground cover after bloom.