Kenilworth Ivy, Ivy-leaved Toadflax
cymbalaria muralis
Also known as: ["Kenilworth Ivy","Ivy-leaved Toadflax","Wall Ivy"]
Overview
A low-growing, trailing herbaceous perennial with small, ivy-like leaves and small, snapdragon-like flowers, often found growing in rock crevices or walls.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Cymbalaria |
| Botanical Name: | Cymbalaria muralis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, wall crevices, or hanging baskets in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day. Adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near east-facing windows; outdoors, provide dappled shade in peak sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid harsh afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mix.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back straggly stems; pinch tips to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to control spread and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. Cymbalaria muralis prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCymbalaria muralis is not toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCymbalaria muralis is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCymbalaria muralis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cymbalaria muralis invasive?
A: It can spread vigorously in suitable conditions but is generally not considered highly invasive.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade and can even thrive in shady areas.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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