About
Hedera hibernica, the Irish ivy, is a vigorous, large, self-clinging, evergreen climber with broad, five-lobed, dark-green leaves to 12 cm across, slightly lighter green underneath. Small, greenish flowers are followed by black berries. Excellent for rapid ground cover and wall covering in sun or shade.
About the genus
Hedera, the ivies, are evergreen climbing shrubs that cling by aerial roots, producing two distinct forms of foliage on juvenile and adult growth. Clusters of small, yellow-green flowers are followed by black berries. Versatile and adaptable plants for ground cover, walls and topiary in sun or shade.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub
HabitClimbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toBritish Isles
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
CultivationGrows best in fertile, humus-rich, alkaline soil but will tolerate acidic soils
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