Pelargonium peltatum Ruby

Pelargonium 'Ruby' stands out with its abundance of large clusters of small, semi-double, dark red flowers. This medium-sized plant displays green foliage. Its semi-trailing habit is ideal for flowering pots and borders. It is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. It flowers moderately early, from June to October.

Ivy geraniums are derived, among others, from Pelargonium peltatum, a plant in the Geraniaceae family native to the coastal region of the Cape Province in South Africa. This species forms creeping or spreading stems, with foliage resembling that of ivy. The hybrids we know as ivy geraniums have the same semi-trailing habit and increased floribundity. The 'Ruby' variety shows a rapid growth rate and healthy vegetation, forming a round and trailing clump, 50cm (20in) in height and 50 to 60cm (20 to 24in) in diameter. It is composed of numerous flexible stems adorned with bright green and shiny foliage, with five pointed lobes, whose leaves are peltate and circular. They are discreetly marked with a light brown area, and are somewhat fleshy and aromatic. The semi-double flowers are grouped in large terminal clusters, 5 to 7cm (2 to 3in) in diameter.

Ivy geraniums are generous and undemanding plants, ideal for pots or flower beds in front of the house. They will decorate the garden for much of the year. They cascade from hanging baskets and balconies. Their flowers create round and colourful masses that blend together or highlight other plants, whether trailing like the black or purple-leaved morning glories (Ipomoea Illusion Midnight Lace, Ipomoea Sweet Heart 'Purple') or upright like zonal geraniums, petunias, gauras, or fuchsias. The deep red of 'Ruby' beautifully enhances floral compositions, whether used alone or combined with a white or pale pink variety like P. 'France Roche', 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.