Key features
Final size12 x 8 metres in 20 years
FoliageDark green leaves year-round (evergreen)
FlowersSubtle green flowers in autumn
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
A lush evergreen climber, Irish Ivy is ideal for covering any unsightly surfaces. Hedera hibernica can also be used as ground cover, simply pin down the roots to achieve this. This variety of Ivy has dark green, 5 lobed leaves and produces green flowers in autumn and black berries in winter. This evergreen climber provides winter food for late foraging bees and birds.
Hedera hibernica can grow in full sun to full shade and prefers a moist, well-drained soil. This Ivy variety will make a great addition to any garden whilst providing much needed sustenance to British wildlife through winter.
As the sap of Irish Ivy can be quite irritating, please wear protective gloves whilst handling if you have sensitive skin. Our plants are sold on canes ideal for training up walls and fences.
AKA Irish Ivy, Atlantic Ivy, Hedera helix subsp. hibernica
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
