English Ivy (Hedera helix): Versatile Climbing or Trailing Evergreen

English ivy (Hedera helix and cvs.) is a self-clinging climber or trailing perennial with almost flat, palmately 5-lobed leaves. Cultivars vary in leaf form, color, variegation, and climbing habit.

Culture & Propagation

Thrives in fertile, rich, moist but well-drained soil but tolerates variety of conditions. Variegated cultivars prefer more light, darker green tolerate shade. Root 4–6 inch semi-ripe cuttings of juvenile growth spring to autumn.

Problems

Bacterial spot, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, scale. Deer may eat foliage.

Quick Reference

• Growth Pace: Fast, invasive/aggressive
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Attributes: Showy foliage
• Uses: Trellis, ground cover, vines