Pelargonium Big 5 Amethyst - Ivy Geranium

Pelargonium Big 5 Amethyst is part of a series of exceptional double-flowered ivy geraniums. They are all particularly vigorous, early-flowering and floriferous, and have beautiful semi-double to double flowers adorned with vibrant colours. It is as easy to grow as it is incredibly generous, and will work wonders in containers, balcony planters, and hanging baskets. Its flexible stems are adorned with glossy leaves. The stems bear large bouquets of semi-double flowers in a pretty pinkish-mauve. They bloom incessantly from spring until the first frosts, transforming the plant into a superb flowering cascade.

This geranium is derived from Pelargonium x peltatum, also known as P. x hederaefolium or ivy geranium. It is a frost-sensitive perennial plant from the geranium family. It is of horticultural origin. Its ancestors are native to South Africa. This hybrid is characterised by a rather trailing but bushy habit and long branching stems. They are adorned with glossy leaves that are divided into pointed lobes, which theoretically persist through winter if the plant is kept frost-free. Not very hardy (-4°C (24.8°F) approximately), ivy geranium is often grown as an annual in our climates. The 'Big 5' series exists in the same range of colours as the 'Rainbow' series, but the plants produce double flowers instead of single ones.

In just a few weeks, this vigorous variety forms a semi-trailing bushy clump measuring about 40cm (16in) in height and 50 to 60cm (20 to 24in) in diameter. Its leathery leaves are circular and palmate, with pointed lobes. Their glossy colour changes from light green when they first emerge to a rich green maculated with brown in the centre. The long and abundant flowering lasts from April-May until the first frosts, with a peak of flowering in July-August. The semi-double flowers are round and open, gathered in large clusters.

Ivy-leaf geraniums are generous and undemanding plants, perfect for decorating pots for a large part of the year. Plant them en masse, combining different colours, to create a lasting and cheerful display throughout summer. These plants can be used to cascade from a planter, a raised pot, or a hanging basket. They can also be grown as ground cover in flower beds, where they tolerate water scarcity very well. Depending on the preferences of each gardener, this variety can be paired with verbenas, blue lobelias, morning glories, Million Bells, Madagascan periwinkles, Dichondra 'Silver Falls', bidens, or even diascias, for example.

Please be aware that our young plug plants are professional products intended for experienced gardeners. Upon receipt, repot and store them under cover (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame) at a temperature above 14°C (57.2°F) for a few weeks before planting them outdoors, once the risk of frost has definitely passed.