Hedera
( HED - er - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationHedera, commonly called Ivy, is used widely as a groundcover and climbing plant, covering swaths of land and buildings quickly and easily. Its spreading habit is sometimes seen as being invasive, which can be a problem for the first ten years of the plants life. After this juvenile period, the plant becomes shrub-like and starts to produce clusters of greenish white flowers in summertime. The flowers fade after their blooming period is over and are followed by black berries in fall.
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Hedera Species and Varietals
The best growing zones for Hedera vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Hedera algeriensis (Hedera canariensis) (Algerian Ivy) This species of Ivy is native to the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean Coast of Northern Africa. Green leaves have shallow lobes and the plant has a coarse look to it. Variety 'Gloire de Marengo' (also called 'Variegata') has leaves edged in creamy white. These vines grow best in zones 5-9 and 12-24 and do not do well in areas with a lot of warm weather. |
Hedera colchica (Persian Ivy) This species does best in zones 3b-24 and is native to Turkey and the Caucusus Mountains. It has larger leaves than most other Ivy species. Varieties include 'Dentata' (with slightly toothed leaves), 'Dentata Variegata' (with variegated leaves) and 'Sulphur Heart' (also called 'Paddy's Pride, which has central variegation in shades of gold). |
Hedera helix (English Ivy) This species grows in zones 3-24 and H1, and is native to Europe. It has dark green leaves and the species includes many varieties. Many are small and are great for hanging baskets, others are good specimens for topiaries, and still others are great for espaliers and small-scale groundcovers. Variety 'Baltica' is a popular variegated selection whose foliage turns purple in cooler temperatures. |
Caring for Hedera
Plant Ivy in springtime, about 1.5 to 2 feet apart. Amend soil with organic matter first, and thoroughly moisten the soil. Make sure that the transplants soil is moist and that its roots and leaves are not wilted or rotting before transplanting. Feed with a high-nitrogen fertilizer after planting and continue feeding every year, once in early spring and once in the middle of summertime. Groundcover Ivy should be trimmed two or three times a year around the edges of its growing plot, and can be mowed if it is getting too tall.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 353 - 354, Hedera
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