Hedera helix 'Silver Variegated' (Ivy) – Evergreen Climber and Ground Cover (12 Plants in 2 x 6-Cell Trays)

Silver variegated ivy is a classic evergreen climber and ground cover, with green leaves edged in silver and soft white, and it is one of the few plants that will grow happily in dry shade. This is Hedera helix, often called English ivy.

Each plant clings by itself to fences, walls and trellis, or trails and spreads along the ground and over the edge of a hanging basket, window box or container. The variegated foliage stays attractive all year and brightens shady corners where little else will grow. Variegated forms like a little more light than plain green ivies, so a spot in partial shade gives the best colour. Once the plant is mature, its late autumn flowers offer nectar to bees and other pollinators, provided it is not clipped too hard.

You receive 12 plants, growing in 2 trays of 6 cells, one plant to a cell. They are ready to plant out into a border, a pot or a basket. Ivy is fully hardy in Britain and copes with most soils, including clay and chalk, as long as it is not waterlogged. Water well until established, then it needs very little care. Trim back whenever needed to keep it in shape.

Ivy is harmful to dogs, cats, rabbits and rodents if eaten, and the sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when pruning.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Silver Variegated Ivy, English Ivy
• Botanical Name: Hedera helix
• Growth Habit: Vigorous, self-clinging climber and ground cover, trailing when grown in containers
• Perfect For: Fences, walls, trellis, ground cover, hanging baskets, containers and shady spots
• Foliage: Green and silver leaves with white variegation, evergreen
• Flowering Time: Autumn, on mature plants
• Planting Position: Full sun to full shade, best colour in partial shade
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained soil, tolerates most soil types
• Hardiness: Fully hardy
• Maintenance: Low, trim as needed
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen foliage all year, flowers in autumn
• Type: Evergreen climber