A tough, self-clinging evergreen climber and groundcover with classic lobed dark-green leaves that thrives in deep shade. Useful but invasive, it can damage masonry and is toxic if eaten.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 20 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About English Ivy
Hedera helix is a fast-growing climber in the Araliaceae family. It reaches around 20 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow English Ivy
English Ivy suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
English Ivy does best in loamy, clay and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
English Ivy is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune English Ivy in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using English Ivy in the garden
English Ivy earns its place for a low lawn alternative, a fast screen or informal hedge, a shade tree and clipping into topiary.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair English Ivy with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children. It is thornless and easy to handle. Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying English Ivy
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