Culture
Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, organic soils. Established plants have some drought tolerance. Plants prefer some part afternoon shade in the St. Louis area. In hot summer climates, the primary bloom runs from late spring to early summer (June - July) with a lighter bloom continuing throughout summer into fall. If bloom interrupts in the heat of the summer, plants can be cut back to rejuvenate, shape and/or encourage a late summer/early fall rebloom. In cooler northern climates, plants usually bloom well throughout summer into fall. Side stems may be removed or trimmed at any time to control spread.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Geranium is a genus of about 300 species of annuals and herbaceous perennials from temperate regions. Many make excellent garden plants and many hybrids have been made.
Genus name comes from the Greek word geranos meaning crane in reference to the fruit which purportedly resembles the head and beak of a crane.
‘Dragon Heart’ is a large geranium that typically grows in a clump to 12-18" tall, but sends out sprawling stems that weave through the garden. Five-petaled magenta flowers (to 2" diameter) with black centers and attractive deep red veining bloom from late spring to September (sometimes to frost). Reduced flowering will often occur in hot summer weather in the St. Louis area. Lobed, soft green leaves are attractive throughout the growing season. Foliage forms an attractive ground cover. ‘Dragon Heart’ was bred in Scotland by Alan Bremner.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to leaf spots and rusts.
Uses
Rock gardens, cottage gardens or borders. Mass for ground cover. Containers.
Cottage gardens or wild gardens. Grow along stone walls or on slopes.