Ivy Geranium

(Pelargonium peltatum)

Ivy Geranium (Pelargonium peltatum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pelargonium peltatum, commonly known as Ivy Geranium, is an evergreen perennial herb, subshrub, or vine native to the coastal regions and forest margins of South Africa. It is characterized by its somewhat succulent, slender, and smooth stems, which can grow up to 2 meters (7 feet) in length, allowing it to scramble over surrounding vegetation. The leaves are ivy-shaped, glossy, and thick, contributing to its common name. Ivy Geranium bears umbel-like inflorescences with 2–10 flowers, ranging in color from white to mauve, each with a distinctive "spur" that is merged with the flower stalk. The flowers are bilateral symmetrical and are particularly showy, blooming most vigorously from August to October in its native habitat, although it can flower year-round.

Ivy Geranium is valued for its trailing habit, vibrant flowers, and ease of propagation through cuttings. It is widely used in hanging baskets, window boxes, and as ground cover in gardens. It is also popular as a houseplant. This plant thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils and is drought-resistant. It prefers full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water with slow or medium drainage. While it is not sensitive to soil acidity, it does not tolerate shading or frost. Gardeners should be aware that in some regions, Ivy Geranium can become invasive if not properly managed.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Subshrub, Vine
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, Red, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Coastal regions and forest margins of South Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Cascading Geranium, Ivy-Leaved Geranium, Ivy-Leaved Pelargonium, Ivy-Leaf Pelargonium, Hanging Geranium, Kolsuring, Hängpelargon, Geranio Colgante, Schildartige Pelargonie

Scientific Names: , Pelargonium peltatum, Pelargonium ×peltatum, Pelargonium lateripes, Pelargonium hederifolium, Geranium peltatum, Pelargonium peltatum var. scutatum, Pelargonium scutatum, Pelargonium peltatum var. glabrum, Dibrachya peltata

GBIF Accepted Name: Pelargonium peltatum (L.) L’Hér.