Types Of Ivy

Choosing the right types of ivy for your garden can make a huge difference in your landscape. These versatile plants offer evergreen foliage, quick coverage, and a range of looks, from classic to unique.

But not all ivies are the same. Some are perfect for a shady wall, while others make better ground cover. A few can even become invasive if your not careful. This guide will help you pick the best ivy for your space and show you how to grow it successfully.

The word “ivy” usually refers to plants in the Hedera genus. They are the most common in gardens. But other plants use the name too. Let’s look at the main options.

English Ivy (Hedera helix)

This is the classic ivy everyone knows. It has dark green, lobed leaves and clings to surfaces with aerial rootlets.

Best For: Covering brick or stone walls in shady areas. It’s very hardy.
Things to Note: It can be invasive in many regions. It may damage wood siding or loose mortar if not managed.
Popular Varieties: ‘Goldchild’ (variegated yellow and green), ‘Glacier’ (silver-green variegation).

Irish Ivy (Hedera hibernica)

Very similar to English ivy but often has larger, broader leaves that are a brighter green. It grows very fast.

Best For: Quick coverage as a ground cover in large, tough areas.
Things to Note: Even more vigorous than English ivy. Check local invasive species lists before planting.

Persian Ivy (Hedera colchica)

This one has beautiful, large heart-shaped leaves. They can be up to 10 inches wide! The leaves are often leathery and fragrant when crushed.

Best For: A bold, tropical look. Great as a large-scale ground cover or on big walls.
Things to Note: Less cold-hardy than English ivy. Prefers some shelter.
Popular Varieties: ‘Dentata Variegata’ (cream-edged leaves).

Algerian Ivy (Hedera algeriensis)

Known for its large, glossy leaves that often have creamy-white or light green variegation. It’s stems have a reddish tint.

Best For: Adding bright color to shady spots. Good in containers or hanging baskets.
Things to Note: Not frost-tolerant. Best for warmer gardens (USDA zones 7-10).

Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata)

Technically not a true ivy (Hedera), but used the same way. Its big draw is stunning fall color—leaves turn brilliant scarlet and purple.

Best For: Covering sunny walls where you want autumn fireworks.
Things to Note: It is deciduous (loses leaves in winter). It clings with suction cups, not rootlets.

Japanese Ivy (Hedera rhombea)

Features diamond-shaped leaves and a more delicate growth habit. It’s less common but very elegant.

Best For: A refined look on fences or trellises.
Things to Note: Can be harder to find at nurseries.

Canary Island Ivy (Hedera canariensis)

Similar to Algerian ivy, with large, glossy green leaves. It’s stems are a distinctive red-purple color.

Best For: Warm, coastal gardens. Makes a lush statement.
Things to Note: Very tender to cold.

Choosing the Right Ivy For Your Space

Think about what you need the plant to do before you buy.

For Ground Cover

You want a vigorous, spreading type. English or Irish ivy work well, but be prepaired to control their edges. For a less aggressive option, consider a smaller-leaved cultivar like ‘Ivalace’.

For Wall Coverage

For shady walls: English or Persian ivy. For sunny walls: Boston ivy (for fall color) or Algerian ivy (in warm climates). Always ensure the wall surface is sound first.

For Containers & Hanging Baskets

Choose slower-growing or variegated types. Algerian ivy cultivars like ‘Gloire de Marengo’ or variegated English ivy like ‘Adam’ are excellent choices. They provide beautiful trailing foliage.

How to Plant and Care For Ivy

Ivy is generally low-maintenance once established. Following these steps gives it a great start.

Planting Steps

Pick the Spot: Most ivies prefer partial to full shade. Some tolerate sun, especially in cooler climates.
Prepare the Soil: Ivy isn’t picky but likes well-drained soil. Mix in compost when planting.
Planting: Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the plant in, backfill, and water thoroughly.
Spacing: Space plants about 1 to 2 feet apart for ground cover. For walls, one plant every 2 feet is usually sufficient.

Ongoing Care

Watering: Water regularly the first year. Mature plants are quite drought-tolerant.
Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring. To much can cause excessive growth.
Pruning: Prune in early spring to control size and shape. For ground cover, use a lawn mower on its highest setting to trim it back neatly.
Winter Care: In cold areas, a layer of mulch helps protect ground-cover ivy. Water evergreens well before the ground freezes.

Managing Invasive Tendencies

This is a crucial part of responsible ivy gardening. Many types can spread beyond your garden.

Contain It: Plant ivy in contained beds bordered by paths, walls, or regular mowing strips.
Lift It: Keep climbing ivy off trees. Never allow it to reach the canopy, as it can harm the tree.
Check Roots: Regularly check the edges of your planting and cut back any runners trying to escape.
Consider Alternatives: In areas where ivy is a known problem, use non-invasive alternatives like creeping fig (for walls) or vinca minor (for ground).

Common Problems and Solutions

Ivy is tough, but it can have a few issues.

Pests

Spider Mites: Cause yellow stippling on leaves. Increase humidity or hose off plants. Use insecticidal soap if severe.
Aphids: Cluster on new growth. A strong spray of water usually dislodges them.
Scale Insects: Look like small brown bumps on stems. Scrape off or use horticultural oil.

Diseases

Bacterial Leaf Spot: Causes dark, water-soaked spots. Remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Root Rot: From soggy soil. Ensure good drainage and don’t overwater.

Environmental Issues

Leaf Scorch: Brown edges on leaves in hot, dry, sunny sites. Move container plants or provide more water.
Winter Burn: Leaves turn brown in cold, windy weather. Provide a windbreak if possible.

Creative Uses in Garden Design

Ivy is more than just a cover-up. It’s a design tool.

Topiary: Train ivy over wire frames to create living sculptures.
Erosion Control: Its dense mat of roots is excellent for holding soil on slopes.
Underplanting: Use it beneath trees and shrubs where grass won’t grow, creating a uniform green carpet.
Indoor Decor: Many small-leaved ivies make lovely, easy-care houseplants.

FAQ

Is ivy bad for walls?

It can be if the wall is already damaged. Ivy’s rootlets can exploit cracks in mortar or wood. However, on a sound, well-maintained brick or stone wall, ivy is unlikely to cause harm and can even offer some insulation.

How fast does ivy grow?

Growth rate varies. Fast types like Irish ivy can grow over a foot per year. Others are slower. Optimal conditions of moisture and fertility speed up growth considerably.

Is ivy poisonous?

Yes, all parts of Hedera ivy plants are toxic if ingested, causing stomach upset. The sap can also cause skin irritation for some people. Wear gloves when handling it.

Can I grow ivy in full sun?

Some can, like Boston ivy and certain Algerian ivy cultivars. But many true ivies prefer shade and may get leaf scorch in hot afternoon sun. Check the needs of your specific type.

What’s the difference between ivy and vine?

“Vine” is a general term for any plant with a trailing or climbing growth habit. Ivy is a specific type of evergreen vine within the Hedera genus. So all ivies are vines, but not all vines are ivies.

How do I get ivy to climb a wall?

True ivy (Hedera) will attach itself with aerial rootlets. Just guide the young stems toward the wall. For non-clinging vines, you’ll need a trellis or support system attached to the wall.

Adding ivy to your garden brings structure, year-round green, and a sense of maturity. The key is selecting the right type of ivy for your purpose and location. With proper selection and a bit of management, ivy can be a beautiful and problem-solving part of your landscape for years to come. Always check with your local extension service to see if your chosen ivy is considered invasive in you’re area before planting.