Ivy
Algerian Ivy, English Ivy, Needlepoint English Ivy
Hedera canariensis, Hedera helix, Hedera helix 'Needlepoint'
Light Level: Medium
Water Level: Medium
Hedera was the classical name for any ivy. These plants tolerate low humidity and cool temperatures rather well. These plants are used in containers, dish gardens and as groundcover.
The plant called English Ivy was brought to America by English settlers. The mature foliage is more rounded and elongated than the juvenile foliage. English Ivy leaves have five points and are borne on dark red stems.
Algerian Ivy has broad leaves that are variegated with creamy white margins. They tolerate lower light than the English Ivy.
Country of Origin
Native to Southern Europe and Northern Africa
Maintenance Tips
Older leaves tend to turn yellow then brown if the plants are allowed to become too dry. While it helps to dry ivy down occasionally, don’t allow it to remain dry too long.
Problems with reversion can occur; leaf color and leaf shape are affected. Remove the reverted stem back to the main stem, or, where the desirable traits occur.
Pinch stems back to maintain fullness.
Hedera prefers bright, indirect light indoors. Variegated varieties generally do better with brighter light.
Variegation is best maintained in good light, adequate magnesium, and conservative nitrogen fertility.
Pests and Problems
Two-spotted mite causes speckled foliate and leaf yellowing. It may also create margin burn in variegated types. Mealybugs.
Bacterial leaf spot, Phytophthora is a fungal leaf, root, and stem disease of the water-mold variety affecting Hedera. It causes inner leaves to turn brown and curl downwards. Large gray to black leaf spots may also form, especially where the petiole joins the base of the leaf. Severe infections result in complete plant collapse. Allow the plants to dry out, then do not overwater in the future.
Bacterial leaf spot, Xanthomonas, causes brown to black, small leaf spots, mostly on older foliage. The spots may have a yellow halo or a water soaked edge. Keep foliage dry; clean up dropped leaves frequently, do not overwater.
For more care information visit our comprehensive Indoor Gardening Guide.