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Description
Hedera Helix Ivalace, commonly known as English Ivy or European Ivy, is a species of evergreen climbing plant in the family Araliaceae. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa but has been widely cultivated in many parts of the world. This plant is popular for its ornamental value and its ability to climb walls, trellises, and fences. It is also used as a ground cover in gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Hedera |
| Species | Hedera Helix |
Appearance
Hedera Helix Ivalace has dark green, glossy, and waxy leaves that are typically 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are alternate and have a lobed shape with three to five pointed lobes. The stems are woody and can grow up to 100 feet in length. This plant produces small greenish-yellow flowers in the late summer or early fall, which are followed by black berries.
Care Guide
To care for Hedera Helix Ivalace, you should provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers moist but not waterlogged soil, so you should water it regularly but avoid overwatering. This plant thrives in partial to full shade but can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in cooler climates. It is hardy to USDA zones 4-9. You can fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer every month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hedera Helix Ivalace is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, scale insects, and bacterial leaf spot. You can control these pests by regularly inspecting your plant and removing any affected leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations. To prevent bacterial leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Hedera Helix Ivalace is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa but has been widely cultivated in many parts of the world. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and rocky slopes. It is commonly used as a ground cover in gardens and landscapes and as an ornamental plant in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hedera Helix Ivalace grow indoors?
A: Yes, it can grow indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is not overwatered.
Q: Can Hedera Helix Ivalace damage walls and structures?
A: Yes, it can damage walls and structures if it is allowed to grow unchecked. You should regularly prune it to prevent it from becoming too large and causing damage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hedera Helix Ivalace?
A: You should fertilize it every month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Hedera Helix Ivalace attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it can attract birds and insects with its flowers and berries.
Related Plants
- Hedera Helix ‘Goldheart’
- Hedera Helix ‘Needlepoint’
- Hedera Helix ‘Pittsburgh’
- Hedera Helix ‘Sagittifolia’
References
- “Hedera Helix.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=b525.
- “Hedera Helix ‘Ivalace’.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/153107/Hedera-Helix-Ivalace/Details.
- “English Ivy.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, 2021, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/fp657.
