Geranium sanguineum 'MAX FREI'

Cranesbill is a genus comprising of about 300 species. It is commonly used as a ground-covering perennial which can quickly form a respectable carpet. When in full bloom it offers a solid, one-colour show which in mass plantings looks stunning. Thanks to low growth it mostly finds its place under trees and shrubs, as well as in mixed borders along with other perennials.

Max Frei is a variety of bloody cranesbill which originates from Europe and north Turkey. It was introduced by Hans Frei nursery in Germany in 1976 and was found as a natural mutation in Max Frei’s alpine garden in Switzerland.

It produces 3-4 cm large, rich lilac pink flowers above cute, deeply-lobed, partially glossy, deep green foliage that turns various shades of red in autumn. Flowers open in profusion from late May until early July, and then sporadically throughout summer until autumn. The tuft can be trimmed as low as 5 cm above ground level after the main flowering in order to encourage re-growth of fresh, healthy leaves. Flowers will re-appear in late summer then.

Bloody cranesbill is possibly one of the most common cranesbill species, popular for its durability - it can take spells of both drought and water-logging once established, heat and deep frost. Yet for best results use reasonably draining, humus-rich, equally moist soil. It will grow in full sun as well as partial shade, it is an ideal understory of tall trees providing only filtered sunlight. It is hardy to min. -40 °C (USDA zone 3).

Last update 08-01-2018; 10-05-2022