About
A dwarf, evergreen, trailing ivy forming compact mounds of foliage to 20cm high and 40cm wide comprising small, sharply-pointed and deeply-cut leaves.
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 shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Trailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Rock garden, Hanging basket
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
CultivationTolerant of a range of soils and conditions but grows best in fertile, humus-rich well-drained alkaline soil in a sheltered spot. Ideal for patio containers, or on a wall or trellis, makes a useful houseplant. See hedera (ivy) cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, vine weevil and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and a leaf spot