Species

Hedera helixEnglish Ivy

23 other cultivars

vine

English Ivy Duckfoot

Hedera helix 'Duckfoot'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hedera helix 'Duckfoot' is a vigorous evergreen climbing or ground-covering vine with distinctive, broad, three-lobed leaves that are often variegated, and small, inconspicuous flowers in late summer.

This cultivar is notable for its uniquely shaped, broad, duckfoot-like leaves, which provide a striking visual contrast and enhance its ornamental appeal in shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush evergreen coverage and climbing appeal, enhancing vertical spaces and shady areas.

Reduces erosion on slopes and walls, and acts as a natural insulator.

Supports local insects and birds, contributing to biodiversity.

SpeciesHedera helixEnglish Ivy

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

8 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil in spring
Keep soil consistently moist for 4 weeks
Provide partial shade during hot summer days
Support vines on trellises or walls
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Fertilize lightly in early spring

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Prune to control growth and shape
Mulch to conserve moisture
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t allow excessive direct sunlight in hot climates
Never let soil stay waterlogged
Do not prune in late fall to prevent stress

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Propagate
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen groundcoverClimbing vine on wallsShaded garden border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese maples Heucheras Astilbes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

English Ivy Duckfoot questions

What zones can English Ivy Duckfoot grow in?

English Ivy Duckfoot is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is English Ivy Duckfoot deer resistant?

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

When does English Ivy Duckfoot bloom?

English Ivy Duckfoot typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does English Ivy Duckfoot need full sun?

English Ivy Duckfoot does best in part shade.

Is English Ivy Duckfoot drought tolerant?

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