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Hedera hibernica
Irish ivy
This vigorous evergreen climber can be variable, with veined or plain big glossy ovate or triangular leaves which are excellent for...
3 litre pot | 1.7m cane
shipped within 2 weeks
3 litre pot | 60cm cane
available to order from summer
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Plant description
This vigorous evergreen climber can be variable, with veined or plain big glossy ovate or triangular leaves which are excellent for covering large walls and fences - or hiding eyesores.
The aerial roots of Hedera hibernica form along the stems, enable it to cling to support, so no trellis or wires are needed, but it is also often planted on slopes to stabilise soil and provide year-round groundcover.
A wonderfull addition to a wildlife-friendy garden, it often produces small, insignificant greenish flowers, which may not look particularly exciting to us humans, but are loved by pollinating insects. They also produce black berries, which the birds and wildlife will devour, while the evergreen foliage is useful for offering much-needed shelter for many insects and birds, looking for protection from the worst of the winter weather.
The aerial roots of Hedera hibernica form along the stems, enable it to cling to support, so no trellis or wires are needed, but it is also often planted on slopes to stabilise soil and provide year-round groundcover.
A wonderfull addition to a wildlife-friendy garden, it often produces small, insignificant greenish flowers, which may not look particularly exciting to us humans, but are loved by pollinating insects. They also produce black berries, which the birds and wildlife will devour, while the evergreen foliage is useful for offering much-needed shelter for many insects and birds, looking for protection from the worst of the winter weather.
Eventual height & spread
Plant features
Position
Full sun / light shade / shade
Rate of growth
Fast-growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Hedera hibernica:
To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.
Plant level with the soil surface and incorporate some well-rotted compost into the backfill, sprinkle some mycorrhizal fungi over the rootball and firm the soil around the plant. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.
Once established, ivy can provide a protective habitat for birds and other animals, so any pruning should be tackled ahead of the nesting season in late winter or early spring. Before pruning, observe for a few days, and if birds are returning to one spot, consider leaving it alone as nest building may already be underway.
Plant level with the soil surface and incorporate some well-rotted compost into the backfill, sprinkle some mycorrhizal fungi over the rootball and firm the soil around the plant. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.
Once established, ivy can provide a protective habitat for birds and other animals, so any pruning should be tackled ahead of the nesting season in late winter or early spring. Before pruning, observe for a few days, and if birds are returning to one spot, consider leaving it alone as nest building may already be underway.
Warning
Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten; skin irritant/allergen
