Hedera helix
English ivy or common ivy
A tough and adaptable plant, which when young, will look great spilling over the edges of seasonal pots and baskets. Hedera helix does get big however and if planted in the border, this self-clinging evergreen climber can also be used to cover ugly walls and fences in good time - or provide a lush green carpet in the dry shady areas beneath shrubs and trees where little else will grow.
It's an excellent choice for the wildlife garden since it supports a wide range of native species, and it also works well as a houseplant. Indoors, it stays compact for longer, trails neatly from shelves or hanging pots, and tolerates lower light than many houseplants. It’s easy to manage with occasional trimming, and its dense foliage helps improve indoor air quality while adding a clean, leafy look to living spaces.
It's an excellent choice for the wildlife garden since it supports a wide range of native species, and it also works well as a houseplant. Indoors, it stays compact for longer, trails neatly from shelves or hanging pots, and tolerates lower light than many houseplants. It’s easy to manage with occasional trimming, and its dense foliage helps improve indoor air quality while adding a clean, leafy look to living spaces.
How to care for Hedera helix:
Water specimens grown as houseplants regularly during the growing season, providing a balanced liquid fertiliser each month. Keep moist during the winter months. Plants may be pruned at any time of the year to keep within bounds.
This ivy is fully hardy and can also be planted outside. If growing ivy against a wall or fence, plant 30cm (12in) away and angle towards support. Plant level with the soil surface and incorporate some well-rotted compost into the backfill, sprinkle some mycorrhizal fungi over the rootball and firm the soil around the plant. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.
Once established, ivy can provide a protective habitat for birds and other animals, so any pruning should be tackled ahead of the nesting season in late winter or early spring. Before pruning, observe for a few days, and if birds are returning to one spot, consider leaving it alone as nest building may already be underway.
This ivy is fully hardy and can also be planted outside. If growing ivy against a wall or fence, plant 30cm (12in) away and angle towards support. Plant level with the soil surface and incorporate some well-rotted compost into the backfill, sprinkle some mycorrhizal fungi over the rootball and firm the soil around the plant. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.
Once established, ivy can provide a protective habitat for birds and other animals, so any pruning should be tackled ahead of the nesting season in late winter or early spring. Before pruning, observe for a few days, and if birds are returning to one spot, consider leaving it alone as nest building may already be underway.
Eventual height:
4m
Eventual spread:
4m
-
Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten; skin irritant/allergen
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