There are several types of perennial geraniums hardy in Canada, which are obviously nothing like the pelargoniums used as annuals in our latitudes, as they don’t survive our winter temperatures.
Larry had classified the geranium as a perennial that was almost always in bloom! All varieties make excellent ground cover, forming cushions of cut foliage and small flowers ranging from pink to mauve and white. The varieties Larry recommended were Geranium ‘Ann Folkard’, G. cinereum, G. dalmaticum, G. endresii, G. x oxonianum and G. sanguineum
The Blood Cranesbill, a Ground Cover to Discover
Personally, I’m partial to the blood cranesbill (Geranium sanguineum): a small perennial that’s hardy in zone 3 and highly resistant to drought. This variety forms cushions 15 to 20 cm (16-24 inches) high and 40 to 60 cm (16-24 inches) in diameter, and produces an abundance of small pink-magenta flowers from June to September. The bright green foliage turns reddish in autumn, and the plant multiplies spontaneously from seed.
This perennial is ideal for rock gardens or sunny to semi-shaded flowerbeds. It likes well-drained soil and is therefore an excellent substitute for a sunny lawn, especially on a steep slope where the use of a lawnmower is dangerous.
Drought-Resistant Ground Cover
Other drought-resistant ground-cover perennials could benefit from the same kind of sunny situation.
Aurinia saxatile (Golden alyssum): zone 3
Antennaria howellii subsp. canadensis syn. A. canadensis (Canadian Pussytoes): zone 2
Cerastium tomentosum (Snow-in-summer): zone 2
Sedum rupestre ‘Angelina‘, Sedum spathulifolium, Sedum oreganum (Stonecrop) : zone 3
Thymus sp (thymes): zone 3
I bought a citronella plant and later was told it is a geranium. Is this true? It is growing well, but no flowers. Not enough sun? Gets about 4 hrs rest shady but bright . I live in so ca very hot How often should I water? Thanks
It sounds like you have a citronella geranium (Pelargonium citrosum) , which is often marketed as a citronella plant. If it isn’t flowering, it probably just needs more sun. Watering varies depending on conditions. I would suggest to do so when soil starts to dry out.