Irish Ivy

hedera hibernica

Also known as: ["Atlantic Ivy","Common Ivy"]

Family: Araliaceae Genus: Hedera Category: Leaf Plants

Overview

A vigorous, evergreen climbing plant native to Western Europe, known for its dense foliage and ability to climb walls and trees.

Benefits & Perks

["disease resistant","deer resistant","cold hardy","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Apiales
Family: Araliaceae
Genus: Hedera
Botanical Name: Hedera hibernica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Leaf Plants
  • Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot, or as ground cover in shaded areas
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can tolerate slightly loamy soil outdoors.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of filtered sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering), root rot, stunted growth (poor soil quality).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings with nodes; can also propagate via layering.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting with nodes.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a cover; keep out of direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary if growth slows or soil degrades.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in freezing conditions.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; feed monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Hedera hibernica can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Hedera hibernica may result from water stress, either due to underwatering or overwatering, disrupting the plant's ability to maintain turgor pressure and nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Hedera hibernica are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, which can compromise leaf integrity, reduce photosynthesis, and lead to premature leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Hedera hibernica due to excessive moisture, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Hedera hibernica, particularly from the berries and leaves, which contain saponins that can cause gastrointestinal and systemic issues.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure the plant is inaccessible to cats. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care immediately.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Hedera hibernica by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and other toxic effects due to the presence of saponins. The berries are especially hazardous.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Toxic

Hedera hibernica contains toxic compounds, primarily saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The berries are particularly toxic and should not be consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain drowsiness difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Irish Ivy toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Can Irish Ivy be grown indoors?

A: While it can survive indoors, it thrives best in outdoor conditions with ample space to climb.

Q: Does Irish Ivy require a lot of maintenance?

A: No, it is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate neglect once established.

Quick Reference
Family: Araliaceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

False Aralia
View
Balfour Aralia
View
Persian Ivy
View
Tiger Palm, Japanese Angelica-tree
View