Ivy

Ivy (Hedera helix), also known as English ivy, is a vigorous, self-clinging evergreen with dark green, three-lobed leaves. It covers a bare fence or wall, carpets the ground under trees and clips into topiary, all in shade where little else will grow. It is also a plant to grow with care: in parts of Australia it is a weed, so this is one to keep contained.

Why you'll love it

• Thrives in shade. Where lawns and most shrubs fail, it grows happily in shade or filtered sun.
• Hides fences and walls. Self-clinging stems climb unaided and cover unsightly surfaces quickly.
• Fast groundcover. Stems root as they run along the ground, filling in beneath trees and along shaded boundaries.
• Takes almost any soil. It is happy in almost any soil and totally cold hardy.
• Shelter and food for wildlife. Birds use the dense growth for shelter, and the foliage and black winter berries feed birds and insects.

Where it works best

Fences and walls. Plant 50cm apart along the base of a fence or wall. The stems climb by themselves, and the plants join into a single green screen.

Groundcover under trees. Plant 50cm apart beneath trees, where grass will not grow. It roots along the stems and fills the gaps between plants.

Topiary and archways. Train it over a wire frame for instant topiary, or over an archway, and clip regularly to hold the shape.

Growing Ivy in Australia

Position and climate. Shade or filtered sun with plenty of indirect light. It is best suited to cooler Australian climates, so it suits cool temperate, warm temperate and Mediterranean gardens, though it is robust enough to test in hotter ones.

Soil. Happy in almost any soil.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until established, with extra water in dry periods. Feed with a controlled-release fertiliser each spring and follow with a liquid fertiliser monthly through summer.

Pruning. Growth can be prolific, so cut it back as required. English ivy has become a serious environmental weed in parts of Australia, particularly Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania. Keep it clipped and contained, never let it run toward bushland, put the cuttings in green waste, and check your local weed rules before planting.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Ivy as tube stock (a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly), in 140mm pots in packs of 10 and in 200mm pots in packs of 6. Tubes are the economical way to cover a long fence or a shaded bed, while the larger pots give you fuller cover sooner. Plants travel well and pick up speed within weeks of planting.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• More climbers for fences and walls
• Other groundcovers
• Shade gardening: what to plant where
• Plants for full shade

Common questions

Is ivy a weed in Australia?

In parts of the country, yes. English ivy has become a serious environmental weed, particularly in Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania, where it smothers bushland. Keep it contained, and check local rules.

How far apart should I plant it?

Plant 50cm apart for groundcover or to cover a fence. The stems root as they spread, so the gaps close quickly.

Is it safe for pets?

No. It is toxic to dogs, cats and people if eaten, and the sap can irritate skin. Keep pets away from it and wear gloves when cutting it back.