Species

2 other cultivars

perennial

Charm Alpine Geranium

Erodium reichardii 'Charm'

The Story

Plant Bio

Erodium reichardii, commonly known as alpine geranium or heron's bill, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial native to the Pyrenees. It features small, scalloped, heart-shaped green leaves and produces delicate, five-petaled, cup-shaped flowers in late spring and summer.

'Charm' is a popular cultivar noted for its particularly compact, tidy habit and its profusion of deep pink flowers with darker pink veins. It blooms for an exceptionally long period from late spring through summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides delicate pink blooms and fern-like foliage, adding texture and color to sunny gardens.

Drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies with nectar-rich flowers.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

3 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring
Water lightly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
Place in full sun for optimal growth
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding after germination
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly once established 💧
Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Place in full sun for best flowering

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged
Overcrowd plants, limiting airflow
Use heavy, clay soils without amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Rock garden accentGroundcover in sunny borders

Companion Plants

SedumThyme Lavender Coreopsis Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Charm Alpine Geranium questions

What zones can Charm Alpine Geranium grow in?

Charm Alpine Geranium is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Charm Alpine Geranium deer resistant?

Yes — Charm Alpine Geranium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Charm Alpine Geranium bloom?

Charm Alpine Geranium typically blooms in late spring to early fall through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Charm Alpine Geranium need full sun?

Charm Alpine Geranium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Charm Alpine Geranium drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Charm Alpine Geranium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.