Pelargonium peltatum (Ivy-leaved Geranium, Ivy Geranium)


Botanical Information

FamilyGeraniaceae
GenusPelargonium
Speciespeltatum
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals
OriginNative to Southern Africa.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone10a - 11
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cold season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH3 - H1c
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-1.1 to above 4.5
Temperature (°F)34 to 50
Height30 - 60 cm
Spread30 - 90 cm
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodMay, June, July

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionThe vines have soft, wide leaves stemming individually along it.
ID CharacteristicMany of the ivy geraniums sold in commerce today are hybrids in which P. peltatum is a main parent.
ShapeTrailing.
LandscapeBest in hanging baskets, containers and window boxes. May be grown in beds or borders as an annual ground cover.
PropagationUsually by stem cuttings but also via seed.
CultivationGrow in average to organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Water regularly during the growing season. Best in full sun, but appreciates some light shade in the heat of the day.
PestsNo notable pests or diseases.
Notable SpecimensRoyal Park Rajapruek, Mae Hia, Thailand. Chelsea Physic Garden, London, United Kingdom.
HabitatGrows in scrub along coasts, or dry, rocky hillsides.
Bark/Stem DescriptionBrittle, trailing stems that spread to as much as 90 cm wide.
Leaf DescriptionThick, lobed, medium green, ivy-like leaves.
Flower DescriptionCclusters of single or double flowers in shades of red, pink, lilac or white.

Photographs