Geranium x cantabrigiense 'Westray'

Perennial of the Geraniaceae family, Geranium x cantabrigiense is a natural hybrid between G. macrorrhizum and G. dalmaticum, originating from the karsts and limestone cliffs of Dalmatia. 'Westray' is a cultivar selected for the particularly intense hue of its floral color, which clearly distinguishes it from other representatives of this hybrid.

The plant forms a dense and gradually spreading, semi-evergreen mat, reaching 20 to 30 cm in height. The foliage is palmately lobed, a bright and fresh green, aromatic when crushed, inherited from G. macrorrhizum. The flower stems are slender, reddish, and bear the flowers well above the foliage.

The flowers, about 2.5 to 3 cm in diameter, are a bright and vivid magenta pink. The petals are slightly notched, and the stamens with pink-red filaments as well as the prominent styles add a lively character to the flower. The buds, dark reddish-brown and densely pubescent, form a pronounced contrast with the open flowers.

Like the entire cantabrigiense group, it tolerates poor and well-drained soils, summer drought, and some shade. Its ground-covering vigor and the brightness of its color make it an effective choice for rock gardens and sunny borders.