Skip to content

Hedera helix

English Ivy

Common names: Common Ivy

English Ivy

This description was machine-translated.

Description

English Ivy (Hedera helix) is a hardy, evergreen climber suited to shady walls and trees, ascending with adhesive roots. Its late flowers in September and October provide one of the last nectar sources for bees and hoverflies before winter, while the black berries serve as a winter food supply for birds. Both berries and leaves are toxic to humans.

Care instructions

Plant English Ivy in semi‑shaded to shaded locations; it thrives on almost any soil. Water regularly during the first few years, then it requires little maintenance. Prune heavily in spring (around week 15 of the year) to maintain shape if it becomes too vigorous, and check that it does not grow into masonry or under roof tiles.

Notes from real gardens

What other gardeners have written down about this variety — anonymous, voluntary.

No notes shared yet. Will you be the first to write one down?

If you want to write your own notes, sign in or create an account.