Geranium macrorrhizum 'Walter Ingwersen'

Species

Geranium macrorrhizumBigroot Geranium

3 other cultivars

perennial

Walter Ingwersen Geranium

Geranium macrorrhizum 'Walter Ingwersen'

The Story

Plant Bio

Geranium macrorrhizum Walter Ingwersen is a hardy perennial with mounding growth, featuring rounded, aromatic leaves and clusters of small, five-petaled pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vigorous ground-covering habit and its fragrant foliage, which releases a pleasant scent when brushed, making it an excellent choice for shaded or woodland garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides attractive, aromatic foliage and colorful flowers, ideal for groundcover and borders.

Drought tolerant and deer resistant, reducing maintenance needs.

Supports pollinators like insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.

SpeciesGeranium macrorrhizumBigroot Geranium

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers well-drained, dry to average humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
Place in a location with partial to full sun
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged ❌
Neglect pruning 🌱

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcoverBorder edging with fragrant foliage

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Sedum Coreopsis Nepeta

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Walter Ingwersen Geranium questions

What zones can Walter Ingwersen Geranium grow in?

Walter Ingwersen 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 Walter Ingwersen Geranium deer resistant?

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

When does Walter Ingwersen Geranium bloom?

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

Does Walter Ingwersen Geranium need full sun?

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

Is Walter Ingwersen Geranium drought tolerant?

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