The Story
Plant Bio
Geranium phaeum, or dusky cranesbill, is a clump-forming perennial noted for its deeply lobed leaves and distinctive, reflexed, dark-colored flowers.
The 'Samobor' cultivar is prized for its attractive foliage, which features large, chocolate-purple blotches on each leaf lobe, providing interest even when not in bloom.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
- Pinch back stems to promote bushier growth in late spring.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and partial shade for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems after flowering
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season to prevent legginess
- Never ignore pests or diseases
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| 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
Samobor Dusky Cranesbill questions
What zones can Samobor Dusky Cranesbill grow in?
Samobor Dusky Cranesbill 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 Samobor Dusky Cranesbill deer resistant?
Yes — Samobor Dusky Cranesbill is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Samobor Dusky Cranesbill bloom?
Samobor Dusky Cranesbill 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 Samobor Dusky Cranesbill need full sun?
Samobor Dusky Cranesbill does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Geranium to compare

Bigroot Geranium
Geranium macrorrhizum

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'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Samobor Dusky Cranesbill 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.





