Culture
Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, organic soils. Established plants have some drought tolerance. Plants prefer some part afternoon shade in the St. Louis area. In hot summer climates, the primary bloom runs from late spring to early summer (June - July) with a lighter bloom continuing throughout summer into fall. If bloom interrupts in the heat of the summer, plants can be cut back to rejuvenate, shape and/or encourage a late summer/early fall rebloom. In cooler northern climates, plants usually bloom well throughout summer into fall. Side stems may be removed or trimmed at any time to control spread.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Geranium is a genus of about 300 species of annuals and herbaceous perennials from temperate regions. Many make excellent garden plants and many hybrids have been made.
Genus name comes from the Greek word geranos meaning crane in reference to the fruit which purportedly resembles the head and beak of a crane.
‘Orion’ is reportedly a hybrid cross between G. ‘Brookside’ and G. himalayense ‘Gravetye’. It forms a vigorous clump to 2’ tall. Large, saucer-shaped, blue geraniums with violet veins and white centers appear in late spring and bloom for two months. Bloom continues thereafter, sometimes sporadically, into fall. Flowers are typically 1 1/2” in diameter, but reportedly will reach 2” to 2 1/2” in diameter in some areas. Deeply cut deep green foliage acquires attractive red tinges in fall.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to leaf spots and rusts.
Uses
Rock gardens, cottage gardens or borders. Mass for ground cover. Containers.
Also effective in large patio planters and window boxes.