Geranium incanum (Carpet Geranium)

Plant Profile

Geranium incanum, known as Carpet Geranium, is a low, trailing perennial with finely divided, silvery-gray green leaves that form a dense, soft mat. It produces masses of small, pale pink to lilac flowers with darker veins from spring to fall. Native to South Africa, it is valued for its long flowering period and ground-covering habit.

Key Characteristics

• Family: Geraniaceae (jer-ay-nee-AY-see-ee)
• Genus: Geranium (jer-AY-nee-um)
• Species: incanum (in-KAN-num)

Growing Conditions

Full sun to part shade, well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established. Hardy in USDA zones 8–10; often grown as an annual or in containers in cooler zones.

Landscape Uses

Excellent as a flowering groundcover, in rock gardens, hanging baskets, and spilling over walls. Long bloom season attracts pollinators.

Maintenance

Trim to shape and encourage density. Deadhead to prolong flowering. Protect from frost in marginal zones.