About
Vigorous, self-clinging large evergreen climber about 5m in height, with large, lobed, glossy dark green leaves to 20cm in length, sometimes tinged purple in winter; may flower on mature growth.
About the genus
Hedera are evergreen climbing shrubs clinging by aerial roots. Clusters of small yellow-green flowers are followed by usually black berries. Foliage of flowering shoots is often less deeply lobed than that of the sterile, climbing shoots
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub
HabitClimbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityHarmful if eaten: skin irritant/allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten, skin irritant/allergen. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, preferably alkaline soil in sun or partial shade. Shelter from cold drying winds. See hedera (ivy) cultivation for further advice
PruningPruning group 11 at any time
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, scale insects, vine weevil and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and a leaf spot