perennial

Ivy Geranium

The Story

Plant Bio

Pelargonium peltatum, the ivy geranium, is a trailing tender perennial native to the Cape region of South Africa, characterized by fleshy, glossy, five-lobed leaves resembling English ivy. The plant produces pseudo-umbels of flowers in shades of pink, red, purple, or white on elongated stalks from spring through fall.

The succulent, somewhat brittle stems cascade naturally, making this species highly suited for hanging baskets and window boxes. Its thick, peltate foliage has a high tolerance for mild coastal spray and moderate drought once established.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides continuous, cascading floral displays in hanging baskets, window boxes, and retaining walls throughout the warm season.

Possesses moderate to high drought tolerance once established, reducing irrigation needs compared to other bedding annuals.

Flowers attract hummingbirds and generalist insect pollinators seeking nectar.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24"

Width

36"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial (often grown as annual)

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Mild skin irritant

Bloom period

Spring – Fall

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Plant in average, organically rich, exceptionally well-drained soil in full sun to light afternoon shade.
Water thoroughly only when the top inch of soil has dried out completely.
Apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks during the active spring and summer growing season.
Pinch growing tips frequently during early spring to encourage branching and prevent leggy growth.

Pro Tip

Allowing the root zone to dry slightly between watering cycles is the most effective cultural defense against Pythium and Rhizoctonia root rots. Cool night temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit are essential to maximize flower production.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Deadhead spent flower clusters weekly to stimulate continuous blooming.
Ensure excellent air circulation around the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Bring containers indoors before the first autumn frost in zones colder than USDA Zone 10.

Don't

Do not overwater or allow the plant to sit in waterlogged, heavy clay soils.
Do not cut back hard into old, leafless, woody stems as regeneration from old wood is poor.
Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of Botrytis gray mold on flowers and leaves.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Pinch
Propagate
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Hanging BasketsWindow BoxesCascading Wall DisplaysTender Groundcover

Companion Plants

Scaevola aemula Verbena peruviana Calibrachoa Helichrysum petiolare

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ivy Geranium questions

What zones can Ivy Geranium grow in?

Ivy Geranium is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Ivy Geranium bloom?

Ivy Geranium typically blooms in spring through fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Ivy Geranium need full sun?

Ivy Geranium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Ivy Geranium drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Ivy Geranium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.