Hedera colchica
Persian ivy
- 3 litre pot | 60cm cane
- £25.49 £29.99
- available to order from summer
Delivery options
- Standard £5.99
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or general-purpose potting compost for containers
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering period: October to November
- Hardiness: fully hardy
This vigorous, self-clinging, Persian ivy has large, lustrous, heart-shaped, dark green leaves. An excellent plant for covering large expanses of wall or as fast-growing groundcover it's particularly useful for 'difficult' areas of dry shade where little else will grow. Prefers fertile, moist but well-drained, alkaline soil.
If growing ivy against a wall or fence, plant 30cm away and angle towards support. Plant level with the soil surface and incorporate some well-rotted compost into the backfill, sprinkle some mycorrhizal fungi over the rootball and firm the soil around the plant. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.
Once established, ivy can provide a protective habitat for birds and other animals, so any pruning should be tackled ahead of the nesting season in late winter or early spring. Before pruning, observe for a few days, and if birds are returning to one spot, consider leaving it alone as nest building may already be underway.
Once established, ivy can provide a protective habitat for birds and other animals, so any pruning should be tackled ahead of the nesting season in late winter or early spring. Before pruning, observe for a few days, and if birds are returning to one spot, consider leaving it alone as nest building may already be underway.
To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.
- Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten; skin irritant/allergen
