Hardy Geraniums: Underused Perennial Ground Covers for Georgia Gardens

Hardy geraniums (true Geranium species, not the annual Pelargonium) are vastly underused in Georgia. They form a weed-suppressing mat of foliage with muted purple-to-lavender blooms, tolerating both drought and wet conditions given good drainage. Excellent choices include Geranium sanguineum 'John Elsley' and cultivars of Geranium macrorrhizum. Often labeled "Cranesbill Geranium" due to their distinctive beaked seed pods.