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.
also read
- The ivy - a wanted poster
- Remove the ivy roots from the walls of the house
- Are there ivy without sticky roots?
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 cared for in protected 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 called common ivy, is particularly robust and grows wherever there is enough soil moisture. This species is absolutely hardy. Hedera helix Goldheart differs from common ivy because of its golden yellow heart in the middle of the leaf. It needs more light, as this is the only way the colors develop properly. Goldheart does not tolerate cold temperatures well and is therefore grown in sheltered locations or in a tub.
Hedera hibernica is also called Irish ivy. This type of ivy has 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 adherent roots. Therefore, this species is less suitable for greening walls, as the plant easily loosens in adverse weather conditions such as storms. At around ten meters, Hedera colchica is not quite as high as the other ivy species.
Is red ivy a specific type of ivy?
Sometimes the leaves of the ivy turn red. This is not another 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 take on a reddish color. However, only the leaves in direct sunlight are affected. Leaves growing on the same stem in the shade are the normal green color.
Particularly poisonous: American poison sumac
In America ivy is one of the most poisonous plants. Poison sumac contains a strong contact poison that can cause severe burns to 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 do not develop until the ivy is older.
