Family: Araliaceae
Common Name: Ivy

This small genus of evergreen climbers has become naturalized in many parts of the world, although it comes originally from Europe, North Africa and Asia. Most species cling to supports by means of tiny, aerial roots; other species have a trailing habit and are widely grown as groundcover in either sunny or shady spots where grass will not grow. Ivy is also a popular indoor potted plant, requiring some sort of support such as driftwood. There is a great range of named cultivars with widely diverse patterns and colour in the foliage.

Species

H. canariensis, Canary Islands ivy, zone 8, is a vigorous climbing species, with large, leathery, lobed leaves, about 20 cm (8 in) across, which turn bronze-green in winter. The cultivar 'Gloire de Marengo' has red stems and very showy, glossy leaves, marked with gray, dark green and cream.

H. helix, English or common ivy, zone 5, a popular species, grows quite quickly up very tall trees if allowed. It has dark green, five-pointed leaves. There are numerous cultivars available in a variety of leaf shapes and markings, including groundcovers with ruffled or wavy-edged foliage. Popular cul­tivars of English ivy include 'Glacier', 'Luzii' 'Oro di Bogliasco', and 'Parsley Crested'. Var. hibernica, Atlantic ivy, zone 7, is a robust groundcover, particularly well suited to shady positions under trees. It has small, bright green, five-lobed leaves.

Cultivation

Ivy will grow in any soil, if drainage is efficient, and will adapt to sun or shade. It will tolerate dry conditions once the plants are established. H. canariensis will not tolerate severe cold. Ivy should not be allowed to climb up living trees as it will damage them and may ultimately kill them. To propagate a climbing type, take cuttings from parts of the plant with aerial roots and juvenile foliage. When propa­gating a fancy-leaf type, take the cuttings from immediately below the leaf nodes. The cuttings should measure about 20 cm (8 in) and it is best to take several from one stem. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cuttings into a softwood hormone powder and place in a mix of ver-
miculite and sharp sand. Water thoroughly and leave to strike in a sheltered, warm spot.

Climate

There are species suited to various cli­matic zones.