Geranium wlassovianum

This is a border or edging species of Cranesbill, happy in a sunny or partly-shaded setting. Native to damp grasslands in eastern Asia, the trailing foliage is lobed, velvety-green emerging reddish purple in spring, turning dark green by summer and red in fall. Known for maintaining its good looks throughout the season. The flowers are dusky-violet with a white eye and darker veining, held in loose clusters and appearing late summer. Seldom offered, but well worth growing in the woodland garden. Plants may be divided in early spring, but are not fast to form a large clump. Attractive to butterflies.