Species

24 other cultivars

vine

English Ivy Midget

The Story

Plant Bio

Hedera helix 'Midget' is a compact, evergreen climbing or ground-covering vine with small, leathery, lobed leaves and tiny, inconspicuous flowers that appear in late summer, often followed by black berries.

This cultivar is distinguished by its miniature growth habit, making it ideal for small spaces and containers, while its dense foliage provides excellent ground cover and visual interest year-round.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen greenery year-round, climbing or trailing for versatile landscape design.

Erosion control on slopes, quick ground cover.

Supports local insects and birds, improves air quality.

SpeciesHedera helixEnglish Ivy

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

6 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

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

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

All parts are toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Bloom period

Fall – Late fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil in spring
Water regularly to establish roots over 6 weeks
Provide support for climbing growth
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Prune lightly in early spring to shape
Fertilize monthly during active growth

Pro Tip

Keep soil consistently moist for best rooting success

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Prune to control shape and remove dead leaves
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Allow soil to dry out completely between watering ❌
Use harsh chemicals near roots ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Green climbing wallShade groundcoverVanilla-scented border

Companion Plants

HostaFerns AstilbeJapanese Maple Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

English Ivy Midget questions

What zones can English Ivy Midget grow in?

English Ivy Midget 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 Midget deer resistant?

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

When does English Ivy Midget bloom?

English Ivy Midget typically blooms in fall 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 Midget need full sun?

English Ivy Midget does best in part shade.