Hedera helix ‘Erecta’

Hedera helix ‘Erecta’ is a mutation of common ivy, notable for its striking structure of erect, candelabra-like growth and its small, geometrically arranged leaves.

Hedera helix ‘Erecta’ is a moderately fast-growing shrub that forms an attractive clump about 1 meter wide and tall.

The leaves are small and triangular, arranged alternately and symmetrically on thick, upright stems, shifting from a soft light green to dark grayish as they age.

Each leaf is contrasted by pale veins, giving it a marbled appearance.

In autumn, its small and inconspicuous green flowers form globular clusters and provide excellent nectar for bees. These are followed by bluish-black berries, toxic to humans but an excellent winter food source for birds.

👨‍🌾GARDENING TIPS👨‍🌾:

• • ☀️ Hederas are plants of the forest shade – avoid planting ‘Erecta’ in an overly hot, sun-exposed areas.
    • Afternoon shade or sheltered beneath a tree canopy will allow it to thrive – it is otherwise perfectly hardy and drought-resistant
  • ⭐ Planting it alongside flowering perennials that tend to flop – Gaura / Echinacea / Phlox / Verbena – will allow for the ‘Erectas’ to hold your composition for longer
  • Can be used as a low hedge or border and requires little maintenance
  • 🫖 Looks very striking in a large container as a feature on a terrace or balcony

The Tale:

Ivies belong to the Araliaceae family, making them relatives of Ginseng and Fatsia.

Hedera helix is a family that naturally produces mutations, that are isolated by botanists or plant nursery owners and published in a recognized journal – the RHS yearly cultivar publication for instance.

‘Erecta’ is a natural mutation of the botanical variety found in gardens and forests across the entire temperate Eurasian zone of the Northern Hemisphere.

Any and all varieties of ‘Erecta’ are cuttings of the original mutation as cross-pollination is exceedingly difficult within the Hedera family. The experiments often result in the mutation reverting to its botanical base, losing all of its peculiar particularities.

Ivy is so interesting – check out our partner website – www.lierres.com – where I currently also work as watchful guardian and caretaker of the largest ivy collection in the world