Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: ivy-leaved pelargonium

Family: Geraniaceae (Geranium)

Distribution: Western Cape, Eastern Cape

Habitat: coastal or succulent scrub

National red list: Least Concern

Life form: Vine / liana / climber

Comments: This is one of the most important ancestors used in the breeding of horticultural Pelargonium cultivars globally, usually called 'geraniums' in trade. This species was one of the first brought from South Africa to Europe, arriving in 1700. It is the parent of countless garden and house plants, especially the trailing cultivars so strongly associated with the balconies and streets of Europe. The multi-billion dollar/Euro industry represented by these plants unfortunately does not benefit the country of origin or the habitats of this species in any way.
In the wild it is a scrambling vine with succulent leaves which can be found trailing through bushes and trees in its habitat. The ivy-shaped leaves are characteristic of the species.