Also known as Kenilworth Ivy · 92 saves
Cymbalaria
Cymbalaria, the genus most gardeners know as kenilworth ivy. We track 4 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 4 most-saved Cymbalaria varieties
2 species of Cymbalaria
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Cymbalaria in Sow
Save the Cymbalaria you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Cymbalaria
Whats common across all Cymbalaria varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 4 most-grown of them.
The Cymbalaria year
- PlantMarch, April and September75% of varieties
Plant in spring or fall, ideal for filling wall crevices or gaps
- PruneJuly75% of varieties
Cut back heavily in early fall if growth is too dense or invasive
- Spring CleanupFebruary75% of varieties
Remove any dead or damaged foliage before new growth starts
Do
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead stems
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season
- Dividing every few years rejuvenates the plant
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight in hot climates
- Refrain from neglecting pruning which can lead to legginess
- Don't disturb roots during flowering
What goes wrong with Cymbalaria
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Slugs | Holes in leaves and slime trails | Use organic slug bait or handpick during evening hours |
| Slugs and snails | Grazed patches in the mat, worst in damp shaded corners | Clear debris and trap or pick at night |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning at soil level | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering |
| Damping off | Seedlings collapsing at soil level shortly after germination | Sow thinly in free-draining compost and avoid overwatering young plants |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply organic fungicide and ensure good air circulation |
Making more Cymbalaria
Cuttings
- Select healthy stem and cut 3-4 inches
- Dip in rooting hormone and plant in moist soil
- Mist regularly and keep in bright, indirect light for 6 weeks
Seed sowing
- Tuck seeds lightly into moist soil in early spring
- Keep soil consistently moist for germination, approximately 2 weeks
Cymbalaria questions
How many types of Cymbalaria are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 4 distinct Cymbalaria varieties. The most popular — ranked by 92 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Cymbalaria grow in?
Across its varieties, Cymbalaria covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Cymbalaria bloom?
Most Cymbalaria varieties bloom in spring to fall, spring to fall, early spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Cymbalaria should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.