Geum 'Bell Bank'

Description: The dark buds which are pretty in themselves, open to reveal sprays of copper-pink, semi-double rose like flowers flowers in April and May. The flowers initially hang their heads but then straighten and the flowers open wider and fade to paler pink which contrast well against the dark stems above the low growing rosettes of foliage.

Uses: A good cottage garden plant mixed with summer flowers but useful at the front of any mixed or herbaceous border.

Climate/Position: Cool site in part shade away from full sun as most Geums are woodland edge plants.

Height/Spread: 40cm x 40cm

Soil Requirements: Free draining soil

Pruning: Cut back flower heads after flowering to encourage further flushes through summer

Special Requirements: The spreading clumps are best lifted and divided every few years to keep them fresh as the centre will die out and plants then look tired.

Additional Interest: Raised initially by the notable TV presenter of the 1980s Geoffrey Smith at his home in Yorkshire.  It was then thought to be lost in cultivation but was rediscovered in the late 1990s by Dove Cottage Nursery and has now become well established.