Species

Hedera helixEnglish Ivy

23 other cultivars

vine

Licorice Plant

Hedera helix 'Trailing White Licorice'

The Story

Plant Bio

Helichrysum petiolare, the licorice plant, is a trailing, tender perennial or subshrub, typically grown as an annual for its woolly, silvery-gray foliage.

The 'Licorice' cultivar is valued for its vigorous trailing habit and soft, felt-like, silvery leaves that provide excellent contrast in containers and hanging baskets.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen coverage with attractive variegated foliage, ideal for shaded walls and groundcover.

Erosion control on slopes and bank stabilization.

Supports local biodiversity by providing habitat and food for pollinators.

SpeciesHedera helixEnglish Ivy

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

12 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Summer – Early summer

In flower about 12 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil in early spring for root development.
Mist the soil regularly to maintain consistent moisture levels.
Place in partial shade to prevent leaf scorch during hot summer days.
Support with trellises or fences for climbing growth.
Transplant mature plants in spring after the last frost for best results.
Mulch around roots to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide partial shade in hot climates 🌱
Water regularly during dry spells 💧
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead growth ✂️
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring 🌱

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to harsh full sun in very hot regions ☀️
Refrain from using high nitrogen fertilizers excessively ❌
Avoid disturbing roots during active growth periods 🚫

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pinch
Plant
Propagate
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen groundcover with silvery-white variegationClimbing vine on trellises for shaded wallsFraming shady pathways with trailing foliage

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Heucheras Japanese Maples

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Licorice Plant questions

What zones can Licorice Plant grow in?

Licorice Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Licorice Plant deer resistant?

Yes — Licorice Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Licorice Plant bloom?

Licorice Plant typically blooms in summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Licorice Plant need full sun?

Licorice Plant does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Licorice Plant drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Licorice Plant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.