Name: Geranium macrorrhizum aka bigroot geranium
Type of Plant: A perennial hardy in Zones 3-8. Fragrant foliage, small flowers in June.
Why I love this: This is one of the best weed-smothering perennials. It is practically evergreen, and looks great from March through December…which is completely acceptable because who doesn’t look a bit shabby in January and February?
This an attractive, practical plant for part-shade slopes and around shrubs and trees. Need more? The deer and rabbits won’t touch it! This plant does everything but wash windows, which is why when people ask “Does it bloom?” my answer is “Who cares?”
A Word to the Wise: There are many perennial geraniums, but none of them are substitutes for Geranium macrorrhizum. You’ll want to plant this where you can use a low-maintenance, gently spreading but non-invasive groundcover. It’s not the best plant for a small space in a perennial garden where you’re looking for flowers first.
OK, since you insist, here’s a photo of Geranium macrorrhizum in bloom.
This perennial plays well with daffodils too!
Problem solved!
Truly one of the greatest rhizomatous perennials ever gifted to temperate gardens. It will even grow in deep shade under rhododendrons and although I have seen (desperate, overpopulated) deer nip the leaves, it is left alone 99.9% of the time.