A shade garden staple with good erosion control properties, Hedera colchica has large, thick leaves. It grows vigorously and climbs if provided a support. Otherwise, it grows as a groundcover. It is also called Persian ivy plant.
What is Persian Ivy?
Persian ivy's leaves are heart shaped, making for an attractive vertical display and earning it the common name My Heart. The vine clings by aerial rootlets and can cover a fence or a wall.
Originating in Turkey, Persian ivy's spherical greenish white or yellow flowers appear in autumn. Some types are native to Southern Caucasus on the eastern coast of the Caspian Sea and Black Sea near the Caucasus Mountains. Foliage is evergreen and dark berries follow the blooms.
There is also a variegated form called Dentata Variegata with insignificant flowers. Another type is Sulphur Heart. Grow it in Hardiness Zones 6 to 9. Flowers are attractive to bees and wildlife.
The nectar-rich blooms draw beneficial insects, birds, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. Blooms provide a habitat for pollinators. Include it in your landscape if you’re attempting pest control with the good bugs. However, the plant is toxic to pets and horses.
While Persian ivy grows best in a shady or part-shade atmosphere, it will also grow in full or part sun. As with most ivies, the plant is adaptable to a range of locations. It is often used as a houseplant and makes a beautiful cascading hanging basket.
Persian Ivy Care
Persian ivy's vigorous growth may be controlled by pruning, as necessary. The vine typically has a three to six feet spread(0.9-1.8 m.), although vines can grow as long at 40 feet (12 m.). Use a hand mower for large areas of groundcover vines. If the sap irritates your hands, wear gloves when working with it.
It is easy to propagate the cuttings. Persian ivy needs a moist, well-draining soil and grows well in many types of medium. Water as needed during hot days. The plant may not be winter hardy in colder areas, but a thick layer of mulch encourages longevity. In some areas, Persian ivy may perform as an annual. If this is the case in your landscape, overwinter a few cuttings indoors.
Care of this groundcover may include dealing with damage by leaf spots, mites, slugs, and snails. Beneficial insects may assist with pests. If leaf spot becomes a problem, prune the vine to allow good air circulation. Container plants may be treated with a fungicide, but remember, it can kill the beneficial insects you’ve attracted.
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