Pelargonium Rainbow Red - Ivy Geranium

Pelargonium Rainbow Red is part of an exceptional series of ivy-leaf geraniums that are both particularly vigorous and floriferous, bearing large single flowers in vibrant colours. It is an easy-to-grow and incredibly generous plant that will work wonders in flower boxes, balcony planters, and hanging baskets. Its flexible stems are adorned with glossy leaves. It bears large bouquets of single flowers in a pure vermilion red. They tirelessly renew themselves from spring until the first frost, transforming the plant into a superb flowering cascade.

This geranium is derived from Pelargonium peltatum, also known as P. hederaefolium or ivy-leaf geranium. It is a tender perennial plant of the geranium family, with ancestors from South Africa. It is of horticultural origin. This hybrid is characterised by its trailing or cascading habit and long stems adorned with shiny, lobed leaves that theoretically persist through winter if the plant is kept frost-free. It is hardy to about -4°C (24.8°F), so it is usually grown as an annual in our climate.

In a matter of weeks, the vigorous Rainbow Red forms a bushy semi-trailing clump measuring about 40cm (16in) in height and 50 to 60cm (20 to 24in) in diameter. Its leaves are circular, leathery and palmate, with pointed lobes. Their glossy colour changes from light green when they emerge to a boldly speckled brown in the centre. The long and abundant flowering renews itself from April-May until the first frost, with a peak flowering period in July-August. The single flowers are rounded 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.