Species

4 other cultivars

perennial

Ingwersen's Variety Bigroot Geranium

Geranium macrorrhizum 'Ingwersen's Variety'

The Story

Plant Bio

Geranium macrorrhizum, commonly known as bigroot geranium, is a low-growing perennial with aromatic, rounded foliage and clusters of small, five-petaled pink flowers that bloom in summer.

Ingwersen's Variety is distinguished by its vigorous growth habit and particularly dense foliage, making it an excellent ground cover with strong drought tolerance and aromatic leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides aromatic foliage and attractive groundcover, enhancing garden aesthetic.

Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, reduces maintenance.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects.

SpeciesGeranium macrorrhizumBigroot Geranium

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southern Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
Place in partial shade for best foliage color
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushiness
Divide every 3 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch around base to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don't fertilize with high nitrogen in late season
Never leave in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcoverFragrant borderErosion control patch

Companion Plants

Hosta SalviaLavender Sedum Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ingwersen's Variety Bigroot Geranium questions

What zones can Ingwersen's Variety Bigroot Geranium grow in?

Ingwersen's Variety 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 Ingwersen's Variety Bigroot Geranium deer resistant?

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

When does Ingwersen's Variety Bigroot Geranium bloom?

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

Does Ingwersen's Variety Bigroot Geranium need full sun?

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

Is Ingwersen's Variety Bigroot Geranium drought tolerant?

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