Climbing Geranium: What It Is, How It Grows, and the Best Alternatives
Climbing geranium is a term often used by gardeners looking for a geranium or pelargonium that will climb walls, trellis, or fences. However, true climbing geraniums do not exist in the traditional sense. No geranium or pelargonium naturally climbs like clematis, roses, or honeysuckle.
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Geraniums (Pelargoniums) are classic, colourful garden and patio favourites that bloom all summer long with the right care.
• Geranium Seed Collection (Mixed & Fragrant Varieties)
A varied seed pack of garden and scented geraniums — perfect for sowing early under cover to grow on for summer displays.
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That said, some geranium-related plants can be trained to scramble or trail, and there are excellent alternatives that give a climbing or wall-covering effect. This article explains what people usually mean by “climbing geranium,” which plants fit the description best, and how to achieve a similar look in the garden.
Is There Such a Thing as a Climbing Geranium?
No true geranium or pelargonium is a natural climber.
- Geraniums do not produce tendrils
- They do not twine around supports
- They cannot self-climb walls or fences
When gardeners refer to a climbing geranium, they usually mean a long-stemmed pelargonium that can be trained upward or a scrambling plant used against a wall.
Plants Commonly Called “Climbing Geranium”
Several plants are mistakenly described as climbing geraniums due to their growth habit or appearance.
Ivy-Leaved Geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum)
This is the most common plant referred to as a climbing geranium.
- Naturally trailing, not climbing
- Long, flexible stems
- Can be tied or trained up supports
- Ideal for walls, trellis, and balconies
When secured to wires or frames, ivy geraniums can create a climbing effect.
Scrambling Geranium Species
Some hardy geraniums spread widely and scramble through other plants.
- Not true climbers
- Suitable for ground cover or informal walls
- Will not attach themselves to structures
These are better described as spreading or scrambling geraniums, not climbers.
How to Grow a Geranium Vertically
While geraniums do not climb naturally, they can be trained.
Best Choice
- Ivy-leaved geraniums
- Strong-stemmed pelargoniums
How to Train Them
- Use trellis, wires, or obelisks
- Gently tie stems with soft garden ties
- Train growth upward regularly
- Pinch tips to encourage side shoots
This method works best in warm, sheltered positions.
Best Positions for “Climbing” Geraniums
To achieve height and coverage:
- Against sunny walls
- In large containers at the base of supports
- In sheltered patios or courtyards
Full sun encourages longer stems and more flowers.
Soil and Compost Requirements
For trained or scrambling geraniums:
- Free-draining compost
- Containers with good drainage
- Moderate fertility
Avoid heavy, wet soil, which causes weak growth and rot.
Watering and Feeding
- Water when the compost surface feels dry
- Avoid constant moisture
- Feed weekly during flowering with a high-potash fertiliser
Consistent feeding encourages long, flexible stems suitable for training.
Do Climbing Geraniums Flower Well?
When well-grown and trained:
- Flower from late spring until autumn
- Produce blooms along trailing stems
- Flowering improves with deadheading and feeding
Training does not reduce flowering if plants are healthy.
Can You Grow Climbing Geraniums Indoors?
Geraniums trained vertically can be grown indoors short term.
- Require very bright light
- Best in conservatories or sunrooms
- Flowering indoors is usually reduced
They perform best outdoors during summer.
Overwintering Trained Geraniums
All pelargoniums are frost tender.
Winter Care
- Bring indoors before first frost
- Cut back long stems if space is limited
- Keep in bright, frost-free conditions
- Reduce watering significantly
Plants can be retrained the following year.
Best True Alternatives to Climbing Geraniums
If you want a genuine climber with a geranium-like look, consider these instead.
Climbing Plants with a Geranium Feel
- Clematis (compact varieties for containers)
- Erysimum (wallflowers with height and colour)
- Nasturtiums (annual climbers with trailing stems)
These offer true climbing or scrambling ability.
Why the Term “Climbing Geranium” Is So Common
The phrase is popular because:
- Ivy geraniums trail strongly
- They can be trained easily
- Garden centres sometimes label them loosely
- Gardeners want vertical colour with pelargonium-style flowers
Understanding the growth habit avoids disappointment.
Common Mistakes
- Expecting geraniums to self-climb
- Not providing support
- Growing in shade
- Overwatering
- Ignoring regular tying and training
Most issues are solved with correct expectations and care.
Is a “Climbing Geranium” Worth Growing?
Yes — if expectations are realistic.
Trained geraniums offer:
- Long flowering season
- Excellent container performance
- Attractive vertical displays
- Easy maintenance
They are ideal for patios, balconies, and small gardens.
Final Thoughts: Climbing Geranium
While there is no true climbing geranium, ivy-leaved and trailing pelargoniums can be trained to grow vertically and create a convincing climbing effect. With supports, sunshine, and regular care, they provide months of colour and are a great solution for gardeners wanting vertical interest without true climbers.
Understanding the difference between climbing and trailing plants ensures success and helps you choose the right plant for the job.