Species

24 other cultivars

vine

English Ivy

The Story

Plant Bio

Hedera helix, commonly known as English Ivy, is a vigorous evergreen climbing or ground-covering vine with lobed, glossy green leaves and small, often variegated, greenish flowers that develop into black berries.

This cultivar mix offers a diverse range of variegated and solid leaf patterns, making it particularly attractive for decorative ground cover and vertical gardens with its hardy, versatile growth habit.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush evergreen coverage and attractive foliage year-round.

Excellent for covering unsightly walls and fences, reducing noise pollution.

Supports local biodiversity by providing habitat and food for insects and birds.

SpeciesHedera helixEnglish Ivy

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

50 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Europe and North Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

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
Water regularly to establish roots over 6 weeks
Provide partial shade for best foliage color
Train along trellises or walls for support
Fertilize monthly during growing season
Prune to control growth and shape annually

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck cuttings into moist soil 🌱
Water consistently during establishment
Prune to maintain shape and control growth
Train along supports for best coverage

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t let roots sit in water
Never prune in late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged hedgeShaded wall coverGroundcover in shady areas

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Heucheras Japanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

English Ivy questions

What zones can English Ivy grow in?

English Ivy is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. 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 deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse English Ivy, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does English Ivy bloom?

English Ivy 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 need full sun?

English Ivy does best in part shade.