Self-clinging evergreen climber that becomes shrubby and flowers only on mature stems high up on its support. The flowers are one of the most important late-season nectar sources in temperate gardens.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 4–9 | −34.4 °C to −1.1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H6 | −20 °C to −15 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 5–8 | −23 °C to −1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 2–6 | −10 °C to 15 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
About Common ivy
Ivy has two distinct growth phases, and most of the confusion about it comes from that. In its juvenile phase it climbs with adhesive rootlets and produces the familiar lobed leaves; in its adult phase, once it reaches good light, it becomes shrubby and self-supporting with unlobed leaves, and only then does it flower and fruit. Its flowers are an exceptionally valuable late nectar source when little else is out. It does not feed on the tree or wall it climbs, though it can add considerable weight and hide structural problems.
Growing notes
- Larval host plant for the autumn generation of the holly blue butterfly
- Flowers in October and November when almost nothing else is in bloom — critical late-season nectar for bees, hoverflies and wasps
- Black berries through winter feed thrushes, blackcaps and woodpigeons
- Often blamed for damaging walls but does not damage sound masonry — only exploits existing cracks
- Provides safe nesting and roosting habitat for small birds
Pet caution: Common ivy is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
Categories
Related plants
Cross-check Common ivy against your zones