Common Ivy (Hedera helix)

Common Ivy, also known as English Ivy, Hedera helix, and a variety of other common names, is a versatile evergreen vine valued for its rapid growth, lush foliage, and adaptability. This climbing plant is a popular choice for ground cover, wall coverings, and even indoor topiaries, offering a classic aesthetic and a range of environmental benefits.

At Gardencenterpoint.com, we understand the appeal of Hedera helix and its many cultivars. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about planting, growing, and caring for Common Ivy, ensuring your success with this beautiful and resilient plant. We’ll explore its best uses and help you with buying the healthiest plants.

What is Common Ivy? Botany, History, and Varieties

Common Ivy is a woody, evergreen vine belonging to the Araliaceae family. Native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa, it has been naturalized in many parts of the world, including North America. Its ability to cling to surfaces using aerial rootlets allows it to climb walls, trees, and other structures, reaching heights of up to 80-90 feet in ideal conditions.

Common name	Common Ivy, English Ivy, European Ivy, Ivy
Botanical name	Hedera helix
Family	Araliaceae
Genus	Hedera
Species	helix
Origin	Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
Native	Not native to North America; considered naturalized in many regions.
Life cycle	Perennial
Plant type	Woody vine; evergreen
Hardiness zone	Typically 4-9 (USDA), but varies by cultivar. Some cultivars are hardy to zone 3, while others are only hardy to zone 10.
Sunlight	Full shade to partial sun. Variegated varieties generally require more light.
Maintenance	Low to moderate, depending on desired growth and location.
Water	Moderate; drought-tolerant once established. Prefers consistently moist soil, especially during the first year.
Drainage	Well-drained soil is essential.
Spacing	Varies depending on use and cultivar. For ground cover, space plants 1-3 feet apart.
Flowering period	Mature plants may produce inconspicuous greenish-white flowers in the fall, followed by black berries.
Height	Can climb to 80-90 feet or more in ideal conditions. Ground cover height is typically 6-12 inches.
Growth rate	Fast to very fast, depending on conditions and cultivar.
Flower color	Greenish-white (not showy).
Stem color	Green when young, becoming brown and woody with age.
Flower benefit	Flowers are not a primary ornamental feature.
Leaf Color	Typically dark green, but varies greatly among cultivars. Variegated forms include shades of green, yellow, white, and gray.
Garden style	Suitable for a variety of garden styles, including cottage gardens, woodland gardens, formal gardens, and contemporary landscapes.
Uses	Ground cover, wall covering, topiary, hanging baskets, indoor plant, erosion control.
Soil pH	Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5).
Propagation	Stem cuttings, layering.
Pests	Can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and scale insects.
Diseases	Can be susceptible to bacterial leaf spot and root rot.
Toxicity	All parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested in large quantities. Can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Invasiveness	Considered invasive in some regions of North America. Check local regulations before planting.

The leaves of Common Ivy are typically dark green, glossy, and leathery, with a characteristic lobed shape (usually 3-5 lobes). However, leaf shape and size can vary significantly among different cultivars. Juvenile foliage tends to be more distinctly lobed, while mature foliage may be unlobed or have less pronounced lobes.

Historical Significance:

Common Ivy has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. It was often associated with Bacchus (Dionysus), the god of wine and revelry, and was used in wreaths and decorations. In ancient Greece, ivy was a symbol of fidelity and was often used in wedding ceremonies.

The plant also has a history of medicinal use, although it’s important to note that all parts of the Common Ivy plant are considered toxic if ingested in large quantities. Extracts have been traditionally used to treat respiratory ailments, inflammation, and skin conditions. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using Common Ivy for medicinal purposes.

Common Ivy Varieties (Cultivars)

The sheer number of Common Ivy cultivars is astounding, offering a wide array of leaf shapes, sizes, colors, and growth habits. Here’s a table showcasing some popular varieties:

Cultivar Name	Leaf Description	Growth Habit	Special Features
‘Baltica’	Small, dark green leaves with prominent white veins	Compact, slow-growing	Very hardy, good for ground cover
‘Glacier’	Small, gray-green leaves with creamy white variegation	Moderate growth	Excellent for brightening shady areas
‘Goldchild’	Bright yellow-green leaves with darker green edges	Moderate growth	Striking color contrast
‘Needlepoint’	Very small, deeply lobed leaves with pointed tips	Slow-growing	Delicate, almost fern-like appearance
‘Shamrock’	Small, three-lobed leaves resembling a shamrock	Compact	Good for small spaces and containers
‘Buttercup’	Bright yellow leaves that mature to chartreuse	Moderate growth	Vibrant color, needs some sun for best color
‘Erecta’	Upright, shrubby growth habit, no climbing	Non-climbing	Unique, architectural form
‘Ivalace’	Curly, ruffled edges	Moderate growth	Unique, adds a touch of whimsy

This table represents just a small selection of the many Common Ivy cultivars available. When choosing a variety, consider your climate, available space, and desired aesthetic.

Planting Common Ivy

Successfully planting Common Ivy involves selecting the right location and using the appropriate planting techniques.

Site Selection:

• Light: Common Ivy is incredibly adaptable, thriving in full shade to partial sun. However, variegated varieties generally require more light to maintain their vibrant colors. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorch.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. Common Ivy prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.5) but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter like compost to improve drainage.
• Moisture: While Common Ivy is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it prefers consistently moist soil, especially during the first year after planting.
• Space: Consider the mature size of the cultivar you choose. Some varieties are compact, while others can spread aggressively. Ensure adequate space for the plant to grow without overcrowding other plants or structures.
• Support (if climbing): If you intend for your Common Ivy to climb, provide a sturdy support structure such as a wall, trellis, or fence. The aerial rootlets will attach to rough surfaces more readily than smooth ones.

Planting Methods:

• Container Planting: Common Ivy is well-suited to container planting, making it an excellent choice for patios, balconies, and indoor spaces. Choose a pot with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
• Ground Planting:
  1. Timing: The best time to plant Common Ivy is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate.
  2. Preparation: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
  3. Planting: Gently remove the plant from its container, loosen any circling roots, and place it in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
  4. Backfilling: Fill the hole with the excavated soil, gently firming it around the roots.
  5. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
  6. Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (such as shredded bark or compost) around the base of the plant, keeping it a few inches away from the stem. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Caring for Common Ivy

Once established, Common Ivy is relatively low-maintenance, but regular care will ensure its health and vigor.

Watering:

• First Year: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week (including rainfall).
• Established Plants: Once established, Common Ivy is more drought-tolerant. Water deeply but less frequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Container Plants: Container-grown Common Ivy will require more frequent watering than plants in the ground, as the soil dries out more quickly. Monitor the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.

Fertilizing:

• Frequency: Common Ivy is not a heavy feeder. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient.
• Type: Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Follow the package instructions for application rates.
• Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Excessive fertilization can lead to excessive growth and reduced hardiness.

Pruning:

• Purpose: Pruning is essential for controlling the size and shape of Common Ivy, preventing it from becoming invasive, and encouraging bushier growth.
• Timing: The best time to prune Common Ivy is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. You can also do light pruning throughout the growing season to remove any dead, damaged, or wayward stems.
• Technique:
  • Use sharp, clean pruning shears or loppers.
  • Cut back stems to just above a leaf node (the point where a leaf emerges from the stem).
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems.
  • To control the spread of the plant, cut back stems to the desired length or remove entire sections of the vine.
  • For a bushier growth habit, pinch back the tips of new growth.

Common Ivy Problems: Pests, Diseases, and Other Issues

While generally resilient, Common Ivy can be susceptible to certain pests, diseases, and other problems.

Pests:

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests thrive in hot, dry conditions. They suck sap from the leaves, causing stippling, yellowing, and eventual leaf drop.
  • Control: Increase humidity around the plant, and use a strong spray of water to dislodge the mites. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can also be effective.
• Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap, causing distorted growth and honeydew (a sticky substance that can attract sooty mold).
  • Control: A strong spray of water can dislodge aphids. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used.
• Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, immobile insects that appear as bumps on stems and leaves. They feed on plant sap, weakening the plant.
  • Control: Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can be effective. For heavy infestations, prune out infested stems.

Diseases:

• Bacterial Leaf Spot (Xanthomonas campestris): This bacterial disease causes small, water-soaked spots on leaves that eventually turn brown with a yellow halo.
  • Control: Avoid overhead watering, improve air circulation, and remove infected leaves. Copper-based fungicides can help prevent the spread of the disease.
• Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth.
  • Control: Ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. In severe cases, the plant may need to be removed.

Other Issues:

• Invasiveness: Common Ivy can be invasive in some regions, outcompeting native vegetation. Before planting, check with your local extension office or garden center to determine if it’s considered invasive in your area. Consider planting less aggressive cultivars.
• Toxicity: All parts of the Common Ivy plant contain saponins, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. Skin irritation can also occur in sensitive individuals. Wear gloves when handling the plant.
• Damage to Structures: The aerial rootlets of Common Ivy can damage painted surfaces, wood, and mortar over time. Regular pruning can help prevent this.

Propagation of Common Ivy

Common Ivy is easily propagated through stem cuttings and layering.

Stem Cuttings:

1. Timing: Take cuttings in spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing.
2. Cutting Selection: Choose healthy, non-flowering stems that are 4-6 inches long.
3. Preparation: Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving 2-3 leaves at the top.
4. Rooting Hormone (Optional): Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to encourage root development.
5. Planting: Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix (such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite).
6. Watering: Water the cutting thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist.
7. Humidity: Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a humid environment to maintain high humidity.
8. Rooting: Roots should develop within 4-6 weeks. Gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance. Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting into a larger pot or into the ground.

Layering:

1. Timing: Layering can be done in spring or summer.
2. Stem Selection: Choose a long, flexible stem that can be bent down to the ground.
3. Preparation: Make a small wound on the underside of the stem where it will contact the soil.
4. Burying: Bury the wounded portion of the stem in the soil, securing it with a landscape pin or a rock.
5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist.
6. Rooting: Roots should develop within a few months. Once roots have formed, sever the new plant from the parent plant and transplant it to a new location.

Uses of Common Ivy

Common Ivy’s remarkable adaptability and aesthetic appeal have cemented its place as a favorite in various landscaping and decorative applications. Its evergreen nature, vigorous growth, and ability to thrive in diverse conditions make it a valuable asset for both novice and experienced gardeners. Let’s explore the many ways Hedera helix can enhance your outdoor and indoor spaces.

Ground Cover: A Lush Carpet of Green

One of the most popular uses of Common Ivy is as a ground cover, particularly in areas where traditional turfgrass struggles. Its dense, spreading growth habit creates a beautiful, low-maintenance carpet of green that effectively suppresses weeds and helps prevent soil erosion.

• Shady Areas: Common Ivy excels in shaded locations under trees or along north-facing walls where many other plants fail to thrive. This makes it an ideal solution for those challenging spots in your garden.
• Weed Suppression: The dense mat formed by Common Ivy leaves effectively blocks sunlight from reaching the soil, inhibiting the growth of weeds. This reduces the need for manual weeding or the use of herbicides.
• Erosion Control: The extensive root system of Common Ivy helps bind soil particles together, preventing erosion on slopes and banks. This is particularly beneficial in areas with heavy rainfall or runoff.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, Common Ivy requires minimal maintenance as a ground cover. Occasional pruning to control its spread and watering during extended dry periods are usually all that’s needed.
• Variety of Textures and Colors: The wide selection of common ivy cultivars includes plants with different leaf shapes, sizes, and colors. This allows for a great deal of design choice in the look and feel of ground cover.

Specific Examples:

• For a classic, dark green ground cover, consider the ‘Baltica’ cultivar. Its small, dense leaves create a uniform and elegant appearance.
• To brighten a shady area, choose ‘Glacier,’ which features small, gray-green leaves with creamy white variegation.
• If you prefer a more textured look, ‘Needlepoint’ offers very small, deeply lobed leaves that resemble a delicate fern.

Wall Coverings: Creating Living Walls

The climbing ability of Common Ivy, thanks to its aerial rootlets, makes it a natural choice for covering walls, fences, and other vertical structures. This creates a “living wall” effect, adding a touch of natural beauty and softening hard architectural lines.

• Aesthetic Appeal: A wall covered in Common Ivy provides a classic, timeless look. It can transform a plain brick wall into a verdant tapestry, adding visual interest and a sense of tranquility.
• Insulation: A dense layer of Common Ivy on a wall can provide some insulation, helping to regulate temperature and reduce energy costs.
• Sound Dampening: The foliage can also help dampen sound, creating a more peaceful environment.
• Wildlife Habitat: A wall covered in Common Ivy can provide shelter and nesting sites for birds and other small animals.

Important Considerations:

• Structural Integrity: Ensure that the wall or structure you intend to cover is structurally sound and can support the weight of the mature vine.
• Surface Compatibility: Common Ivy’s aerial rootlets can attach to a variety of surfaces, but they can damage painted surfaces, wood, and mortar over time. Regular pruning can help minimize this damage. Consider using a trellis or other support structure a few inches away from the wall to allow for air circulation and prevent direct contact.
• Maintenance: Regular pruning is essential to control the growth of Common Ivy on walls and prevent it from becoming overgrown.

Topiary: Sculpting with Ivy

Common Ivy’s ability to be trained and shaped makes it a popular choice for topiary, the art of creating living sculptures. By guiding the vine’s growth over wire frames, you can create a wide variety of shapes, from simple balls and cones to elaborate animals and figures.

• Elegance and Whimsy: Topiary adds a touch of elegance and whimsy to gardens, patios, and indoor spaces. It can be a focal point, a conversation starter, or a way to express your creativity.
• Indoor and Outdoor Use: Common Ivy topiary can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Indoor topiaries add a touch of greenery to homes and offices.
• Variety of Shapes: The possibilities are endless when it comes to topiary shapes. You can create classic geometric forms, whimsical animals, or even personalized designs.
• Frame Selection: Choosing a rust-proof frame that is appropriate for the finished size of the topiary is an important consideration.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Simple Topiary:

1. Choose a Frame: Select a wire frame in the desired shape.
2. Plant the Ivy: Plant small Common Ivy plants (usually rooted cuttings) around the base of the frame.
3. Train the Vines: As the ivy grows, gently weave the stems through the wire frame, guiding them to follow the shape.
4. Secure the Vines: Use soft plant ties or twine to secure the stems to the frame, if necessary.
5. Prune Regularly: Prune the ivy regularly to maintain the desired shape and encourage dense growth.
6. Water and Fertilize: Water and fertilize the topiary as you would any other container-grown Common Ivy.

Hanging Baskets: Cascading Beauty

Trailing varieties of Common Ivy are excellent additions to hanging baskets, creating a cascade of lush foliage that spills over the edges.

• Visual Appeal: Hanging baskets filled with Common Ivy add a touch of greenery and elegance to patios, balconies, and porches.
• Versatility: Common Ivy can be used as the primary plant in a hanging basket or combined with other flowering or foliage plants to create a mixed display.
• Shade Tolerance: Common Ivy’s ability to thrive in shade makes it a good choice for hanging baskets in covered areas.

Indoor Plant: Bringing the Outdoors In

Common Ivy is a popular indoor plant, adding a touch of nature to homes and offices. It’s relatively easy to care for and helps purify the air.

• Air Purification: As mentioned earlier, NASA studies have shown that Common Ivy is effective at removing certain indoor air pollutants.
• Low Light Tolerance: While Common Ivy prefers bright, indirect light, it can tolerate low light conditions, making it suitable for a variety of indoor locations.
• Versatility: Common Ivy can be grown in pots, hanging baskets, or trained on trellises or topiary frames indoors.
• Humidity: Common Ivy appreciates humidity, so misting the leaves regularly or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water can be beneficial.

Erosion Control Beyond Ground Cover

While mentioned as a benefit of ground cover, it bears repeating in a dedicated section due to its importance. Common Ivy’s robust and deep root system makes it an exceptional tool for erosion control, going beyond simple ground cover applications.

• Steep Slopes: On steep slopes where other plants struggle to establish, Common Ivy can quickly form a dense mat of roots and foliage, stabilizing the soil and preventing landslides.
• Stream Banks: Planting Common Ivy along stream banks helps protect the banks from erosion caused by flowing water.
• Coastal Areas: In coastal areas, Common Ivy can help stabilize dunes and prevent sand erosion.
• Disturbed Sites: After construction or other land disturbances, Common Ivy can be used to quickly revegetate the area and prevent soil loss.

Important Note: Due to its vigorous growth, it is crucial to be mindful of Common Ivy’s potential invasiveness. Before planting, research local regulations and consider using less aggressive cultivars or alternative native plants for erosion control if necessary. Check with your local extension office for guidance.

Combinations with Other Plants

Common Ivy’s versatility extends to its ability to complement other plants in various landscape designs.

• Underplanting Trees and Shrubs: Common Ivy can be used as a ground cover under trees and shrubs, creating a layered effect and adding interest to the base of these larger plants.
• Mixed Borders: In mixed borders, Common Ivy can provide a backdrop of evergreen foliage that contrasts nicely with flowering plants and other foliage textures.
• Container Combinations: In container plantings, Common Ivy can be used as a “spiller,” cascading over the edges of the pot, or as a “filler,” providing a backdrop for other plants.
• Rock Gardens: Common ivy can be used to cascade over walls, or provide evergreen coverage.

Artistic and Craft Uses

Beyond traditional landscaping, Common Ivy finds use in various artistic and craft projects.

• Wreaths and Garlands: The long, flexible stems of Common Ivy are ideal for creating wreaths and garlands, especially during the holiday season.
• Table Decorations: Common Ivy can be used to create elegant table centerpieces or runners.
• Floral Arrangements: The foliage can be incorporated into floral arrangements, adding texture and greenery.
• Pressed Plant Art: The leaves of Common Ivy can be pressed and used in various art projects.

Common Ivy and Wildlife

Common Ivy offers some limited benefits, as well as some negative impacts to local wildlife.

• Shelter: The dense foliage of Common Ivy provides shelter for birds and small animals.
• Food Source (Limited): The berries produced by mature Common Ivy plants are a food source for some birds in the winter, but they are not a preferred food source and are mildly toxic to humans and some animals.

Research and Studies

• Air Purification: A NASA study found that Common Ivy is effective at removing certain indoor air pollutants, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. (Source: Wolverton, B. C., et al. “Interior landscape plants for indoor air pollution abatement.” NASA Stennis Space Center Report (1989).)
• Invasive Species Research: Many studies document Common Ivy’s invasive potential in North America, detailing its impact on native plant communities. The USDA Forest service provides resources on Common Ivy’s invasiveness. (Example: https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=3027)
• Medicinal properties: A number of studies have pointed to Hedera Helix’s potential as a medicinal herb. (Example: Hofmann, D., et al. “Efficacy of dry extract of ivy leaves in children with bronchial asthma–a review of randomized controlled trials.” Phytomedicine 10.2-3 (2003): 213-220.)

Common Ivy vs. Other Similar Plants

While Common Ivy (Hedera helix) is a popular and recognizable plant, it’s often confused with other climbing or trailing vines. Accurate identification is crucial, especially when distinguishing it from potentially harmful plants like Poison Ivy. This section provides a detailed comparison of Common Ivy with several similar plants, highlighting key differences to aid in proper identification.

Common Ivy vs. Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)

This is arguably the most important distinction to make, as Poison Ivy causes a severe allergic skin rash upon contact. While both plants can be found in similar habitats and can exhibit climbing growth, there are distinct differences:

Feature	Common Ivy (Hedera helix)	Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)
Leaflets	Typically has 3-5 lobed leaves, appearing as a single leaf with deep indentations. Leaf shape can vary depending on the cultivar and maturity of the plant.	Always has three leaflets (hence the saying “leaves of three, let it be”). The leaflets are typically oval or elliptical with pointed tips.
Leaf Texture	Usually glossy and leathery.	Can be glossy or dull, but often has a slightly waxy or oily appearance.
Leaf Edges	Leaf edges can be smooth, toothed, or wavy, depending on the cultivar.	Leaflet edges can be smooth, toothed, or lobed, but are often irregular.
Attachment	Climbs using aerial rootlets that grow along the stem.	Climbs using aerial rootlets, but these rootlets often have a “hairy” appearance. Can also grow as a shrub or groundcover without climbing.
Berries	Produces small, black berries (drupes) in clusters when mature. Berries are mildly toxic to humans and some animals, but are sometimes consumed by birds.	Produces clusters of small, grayish-white berries. Berries are a food source for some birds, but are highly toxic to humans.
Stem	The stem is typically green or brown and woody, though not conspicuously hairy.	Stems can be reddish and, especially on climbing vines, are covered in dense, hair-like aerial roots.
Overall Growth	Mostly a climbing or trailing vine. Can be used as ground cover.	Can take the form of a vine climbing trees, walls, or other structures. A ground-level spreading shrub. Or a free standing shrub.

The most reliable way to distinguish between Common Ivy and Poison Ivy is the number of leaflets. Poison Ivy always has three leaflets, while Common Ivy typically has 3-5 lobed leaves.

Common Ivy vs. Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata)

Boston Ivy is another vigorous climbing vine that is often confused with Common Ivy. Both are used to cover walls and structures, but they have distinct differences:

Feature	Common Ivy (Hedera helix)	Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata)
Leaf Shape	3-5 lobed leaves.	Three-lobed leaves, resembling a maple leaf.
Leaf Color	Evergreen; remains green year-round.	Deciduous; leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple in the fall before dropping.
Attachment	Aerial rootlets.	Adhesive pads or discs at the tips of tendrils. These pads allow Boston Ivy to cling to smooth surfaces more effectively than Common Ivy.
Fall Color	No significant fall color change.	Striking fall color.
Fruit	Small, black berries (not particularly showy).	Small, dark blue berries (often hidden by foliage).
Growth Rate	Fast-growing.	Very fast-growing.

The most significant difference is that Boston Ivy is deciduous, displaying vibrant fall colors before losing its leaves, while Common Ivy is evergreen, retaining its green foliage year-round. Also, Boston Ivy uses adhesive pads to climb, while Common Ivy uses rootlets.

Common Ivy vs. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)

Virginia Creeper is another deciduous vine native to North America that is sometimes mistaken for Common Ivy or Poison Ivy.

Feature	Common Ivy (Hedera helix)	Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)
Leaflets	3-5 lobed leaves.	Five leaflets radiating from a central point (palmate compound leaf).
Leaf Color	Evergreen.	Deciduous; leaves turn bright red or burgundy in the fall.
Attachment	Aerial rootlets.	Tendrils with adhesive discs (similar to Boston Ivy).
Fruit	Small, black berries.	Small, dark blue berries (often hidden by foliage).
Allergenicity	Can cause mild skin irritation in some individuals.	Generally not considered allergenic, but some people may experience mild skin irritation from contact with the sap.
Growth	Mostly a vine.	A vine that climbs via tendrils with adhesive tips that can attach to almost any surface. Also can spread across the ground.

Virginia Creeper is easily distinguished from Common Ivy by its five leaflets. The “leaves of five” rule is a helpful reminder. It’s also deciduous, unlike Common Ivy. It is distinguished from Poison Ivy through it’s five leaflets, versus Poison Ivy’s three.

Common Ivy vs. English Yew (Taxus baccata)

While generally dissimilar, young plants or small leaved cultivars of Common Ivy can sometimes be mistaken for Yew, especially in landscaping.

Feature	Common Ivy (Hedera helix)	English Yew (Taxus baccata)
Growth	Vining, climbing.	Shrub or tree, upright.
Leaves	Lobed Leaves	Needle-like leaves
Fruit	Small black berries	Red, fleshy arils (cup-like berries)
Toxicity	Mildly Toxic	Highly Toxic

Yew is a shrub or tree with needle-like leaves, easily distinguished from vining Common Ivy’s lobed leaves. All parts of the Yew, except the red flesh of the aril, are extremely poisonous.

Common Ivy vs. Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus)

Despite the common name, Swedish Ivy is not a true ivy and belongs to a different plant family (Lamiaceae, the mint family).

Feature	Common Ivy (Hedera helix)	Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus)
Growth Habit	Climbing or trailing vine.	Trailing or cascading plant, not climbing.
Leaf Shape	3-5 lobed leaves.	Rounded, scalloped leaves.
Leaf Texture	Leathery.	Slightly fleshy, often with a waxy sheen.
Flowers	Inconspicuous greenish flowers.	Small, white or pale lavender flowers.
Family	Araliaceae	Lamiaceae (mint family)
Stem	Woody	Succulent, green or purplish

Swedish Ivy is not a true ivy and has a distinctly different growth habit and leaf shape. It’s a trailing plant often used in hanging baskets, but it does not climb.