Family: Geraniaceae

Ivyleaf geranium is a flowering, scrambling plant with fleshy leaves. The thick foliage is lobed, reminiscent of an ivy leaf. Hence the common name. A year-round bloomer, clusters of single or double flowers are always present in colors of pink, white, lilac, or red. Native to South Africa, ivyleaf geranium is drought tolerant. An annual on the mainland, it is used in hanging baskets and big planters.  In Hawaii, it could be a perennial ground cover with the right conditions and maintenance. This requires pruning to promote robust growth. Deadhead flowers to keep the aesthetics pleasing.

Plant Uses:

• Container plant
• Ornamental
• Privacy / screening

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers

High Risk Traits:

• Forms small colonies via free vegetative reproduction
  
• Widely introduced globally as an ornamental
  
• Trailing, twining, or vining growth habit
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Reaches maturity in 5–8 months
  
• Deliberately spread by people
  
• Wind-dispersed seeds (bristles)
  
• Tolerates heavy pruning

Low Risk Traits:

• No confirmed naturalization beyond native range
  
• Not reported as any type of weed
  
• No spines, allelopathy, or parasitism
  
• Non-toxic to animals and humans
  
• Fire resistant
  
• Prefers full sun (not shade tolerant)
  
• Requires well-drained, neutral-to-alkaline soil
  
• Does not form dense thickets
  
• Low seed output (~5 seeds per flower)
  
• No persistent seed bank (germinates within weeks)
  
• Susceptible to many natural pests/diseases