Ivy is found all over the world. There are many different species that differ in terms of leaf color and winter hardiness. In our latitudes, three types of ivy play an important role.

Ivy leaf coloration varies by species

There are countless species of ivy around the world

There are a large number of ivy species worldwide, which are also represented in different varieties. Ivy always forms green leaves, which depending on the variety can be variegated, i.e. with yellow or white spots.

All ivy species found in Europe are hardy. Only the variegated varieties do not tolerate frost as well as single-colored ivy and should therefore be cultivated in sheltered locations or as a houseplant.

Native ivy species

Four types of ivy play a role in Central Europe:

  • Hedera helix
  • Hedera helix Goldheart
  • Hedera hibernica
  • Hedera colchica

This is how the native ivy species differ from each other

Hedera helix, also known as common ivy, is particularly robust and grows wherever there is sufficient soil moisture. This species is absolutely hardy. Hedera helix Goldheart is distinguished from common ivy by the golden-yellow heart in the middle of the leaf. It needs more light, as this is the only way for the colors to develop properly. Goldheart does not tolerate cold temperatures as well and is therefore grown in sheltered locations or in containers.

Hedera hibernica is also called Irish ivy. This type of ivy forms larger leaves and is not quite as hardy. The adhesive roots are less strong than those of Hedera helix. If you want to green a facade, you should therefore better plant Irish ivy.

Hedera colchica - Caucasian ivy - has rather weakly developed adhesive roots. Therefore, this species is less suitable for greening walls, as the plant easily detaches itself in adverse weather conditions such as storms. At around ten meters, Hedera colchica does not grow quite as tall as the other ivy species.

Is red ivy a specific type of ivy?

Sometimes the leaves of the ivy turn red. This is not a different species of ivy. The red color is caused by sugar molecules in the leaves.

Some varieties of ivy turn red in autumn when temperatures drop. Red ivy leaves are a sign that the variety is particularly hardy.

Direct sunlight can also cause the ivy leaves to turn reddish. However, only the leaves directly in the sun are affected. Leaves growing in the shade on the same shoot are the normal green color.

Particularly poisonous: American poison oak

In America, ivy is one of the highly poisonous plants. Poisonous ivy contains a strong contact poison that can cause severe burns on the skin.

tips

All ivy species are poisonous. The toxins are contained in all parts of the plant. The berries are particularly dangerous, although they only develop when the ivy is mature.

Category:

Indoor plants