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- English Ivy (Hedera helix) English ivy is a fast-growing evergreen vine valued for its versatility. It can be grown in sun or shade (but shade is better, to avoid leaf scorching), including deep shade (as on the North wall of a building), which usually presents a problem for growing plants.
- White-and-Green Variegated English Ivy (Hedera helix 'Glacier') The variegated cultivars of English ivy should generally be given a bit more sunlight than the types with all-green leaves to promote the white coloration in their leaves.
- Yellow-and-Green Variegated English Ivy (Hedera helix 'Gold Child') Your choices in variegated English ivy plants are not limited to the cultivars in green and white.
- Baltic Ivy (Hedera helix 'Baltica') Baltic ivy is very similar to English ivy, except that it has smaller leaves. Like other Hedera spp., its root system makes it a good choice when you need a ground cover for erosion control on steep hills.
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ivy, (genus Hedera), genus of about 15 species of evergreen woody vines (rarely shrubs) in the ginseng family (Araliaceae), native to Europe and much of Asia. Several species are cultivated as climbing ornamentals, and the name ivy especially denotes the commonly grown English ivy (Hedera helix), which is frequently planted to clothe brick walls.
Most ivy species creep or climb by aerial roots with adhering disks that develop on the stems. The stems bear simple leaves, often with three to five lobes; as the stems reach the top of their support, they become horizontal or hang, sometimes developing unlobed (entire) leaves and small greenish flowers. The flowers, typically produced in late autumn, are borne in umbel clusters and are rich in nectar. The fruits are berries and are an important winter food source for birds. Cultivated species are easy to grow as they will thrive in poor soil and endure a considerable depth of shade, so that they may with advantage be planted under trees. A strong light is detrimental to the growth of most ivy species.
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Plants: From Cute to Carnivorous
A question of practical importance is the relation of the ivy plant to its means of support. A moderate growth of ivy is not injurious to trees. Still, the tendency is from the first unfavourable to the prosperity of the tree, and at a certain stage the ivy can become deadly because of its weight and overshadowing of the tree. Therefore, the growth of ivy on trees should be kept within reasonable bounds. In regard to buildings clothed with ivy, there is nothing to be feared as long as the plant does not penetrate the substance of the wall by means of any fissure. Should it thrust its way in, its natural and continuous expansion hastens the decay of the structure.
Many varieties of ivy are cultivated in gardens, and several are popular houseplants. The most common ornamental species is English ivy (H. helix), of which numerous cultivated and geographical varieties exist, including many with variegated leaves. The common Irish ivy (a variety of H. helix) is often used as a ground cover beneath large trees where grass has difficulty in thriving. Atlantic ivy (H. hibernica), native to the Atlantic coast of Europe, is also cultivated and is an invasive species in parts of western North America. Algerian ivy (H. algeriensis), native to North Africa, has a number of variegated cultivars.
For unrelated plants called ivies, see Boston ivy; poison ivy.
Ivy is a genus of evergreen woody vines in the ginseng family, native to Europe and Asia, and also the name of an order of flowering plants. Learn about the description, species, cultivation, and uses of ivy plants and the carrot order.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Jan 12, 2023 · Ivy is a plant in the botanical genus Hedera that produces evergreen leaves that grow quickly. Ivies are native to many countries in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Many types of ivy take their name from their native country. Here are some of the best types of ivy plants to grow indoors or outdoors.
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Hedera, commonly called ivy (plural ivies ), is a genus of 12–15 species of evergreen climbing or ground-creeping woody plants in the family Araliaceae, native to Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe, Macaronesia, northwestern Africa and across central-southern Asia east to Japan and Taiwan.
Feb 21, 2023 · Learn about different varieties of ivy, how to plant and care for them outdoors or indoors, and how to propagate and prevent common problems. Ivy is a versatile and easy-to-grow vine that can add beauty and romance to any space.
Learn how to care for Ivy plants, a fast-growing, evergreen vining plant that can thrive in various indoor environments. Find out the best watering, lighting, humidity, and pruning tips for different types of Ivy, such as Canary Island Ivy, English Ivy, and Swedish Ivy.
Learn how to grow ivy, a perennial vine that can cover a wall with a velvety green blanket. Find out the types, uses, and tips for cultivating ivy in your garden, as well as the potential drawbacks of this plant.
