The Story
Plant Bio
Geranium macrorrhizum, commonly known as bigroot geranium, is a hardy perennial characterized by its sprawling habit and aromatic foliage.
Notable for its vigorous growth and ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, making it an excellent ground cover.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
15 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southern Europe, Balkan Peninsula
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose well-draining soil with moderate fertility.
- Tuck cuttings or seeds in early spring for best results.
- Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency.
- Mist cuttings to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Thin out crowded plants to promote airflow.
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Provide partial shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t place in full shade—plants need some sun
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bigroot Geranium questions
What zones can Bigroot Geranium grow in?
Bigroot Geranium is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Bigroot Geranium deer resistant?
Yes — Bigroot Geranium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bigroot Geranium bloom?
Bigroot Geranium typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bigroot Geranium need full sun?
Bigroot Geranium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Bigroot Geranium drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bigroot Geranium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Geranium to compare

Wild Geranium
Geranium maculatum

Cranesbill 'Rozanne'
Geranium x magnificum 'Rozanne'

Showy Cranesbill
Geranium x magnificum 'Bevan's Variety'

Azure Rush Geranium
Geranium incanum 'Azure Rush'

Cranesbill 'Orion'
Geranium maculatum 'Orion'

Spotted Geranium
Geranium maculatum 'Chatto'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bigroot Geranium with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.




