Characteristics

English Ivy is an evergreen vine that grows very agressively. Mature leaves are 5-15 cm long with palmate venation and deltoidal shape, usually with three to five lobes. The leaf surfaces are glaucous, leaf tip acuminate, leaf base hastate. Leaves arrangement on the stem is alternate.

Hidden Traits/Uses:

Although considered an invasive plant in much of North America, Hedera helix has along history as a very utilitarian species. It can be either a ground cover or, with upright support, a hedge. It is a great plant for wildlife, with many bees and other insects eating its pollen and many bird and wildlife species eating its berries. Stems and leaves have been used in decoctions as a dye as well as a hair-darkening shampoo. It has also been said to have medicinal uses in preparations to combat everything from rheumatism to amoebal infections.