Chinese Ivy (Hedera sinensis) is a vining evergreen plant known for its attractive foliage and vigorous growth. It is a popular ornamental choice due to its ability to climb and spread, creating lush green coverings in various landscapes.
Understanding Chinese Ivy
Chinese Ivy (Hedera sinensis) originates from China, particularly regions like Yunnan. This woody perennial vine exhibits distinct growth forms. In its juvenile stage, the plant produces triangular-ovate, gray-green leaves up to 4.5 inches long, often with two lobes and lighter gray-white veins.
These leaves appear on non-flowering stems equipped with adventitious roots that facilitate climbing and spreading. As the plant matures, it transitions to an adult stage, developing a more shrubby form with unlobed, ovate-lanceolate leaves. These mature stems do not climb but produce greenish-white flowers, followed by orange or yellow berries that eventually ripen to black. The plant primarily spreads through its fast-growing stems which root readily at nodes when they come into contact with soil.
Growing Chinese Ivy
Cultivating Chinese Ivy successfully involves providing appropriate light, soil, and moisture conditions. The plant adapts well to various light exposures, thriving in partial to full shade, though it can also tolerate full sun. When grown in full sun, it may benefit from some winter protection in colder climates to prevent damage from harsh temperatures and winds.
For optimal growth, Chinese Ivy prefers moist, well-drained soils, ideally rich, evenly moist loams, but it is adaptable to a wide range of soil types. Good drainage is important, as the plant does not tolerate soggy conditions. Watering should be consistent, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out between applications.
The plant is winter hardy, generally surviving in USDA Zone 6 and warmer climates. Pruning is beneficial for maintaining the desired shape and density, especially when grown as a groundcover or to prevent it from invading unintended areas. This can be done by trimming stems just above a leaf node, promoting bushier growth.
Managing Chinese Ivy
Chinese Ivy can pose management challenges due to its vigorous growth. Its rapid spreading habit, facilitated by stems that root along their length, allows it to quickly cover large areas. This aggressive growth can outcompete native vegetation, especially in disturbed natural environments. The plant’s ability to climb using aerial roots means it can readily ascend structures, fences, and trees.
Controlling Chinese Ivy often requires persistent effort. Manual removal is an effective method, involving pulling or digging out plants and ensuring that all root fragments are removed, as these can re-sprout. For larger or more established infestations, chemical treatments may be considered. Herbicides like glyphosate or triclopyr can be applied as cut-stump treatments for larger vines or as foliar sprays, though repeated applications may be necessary. Prevention is also important; replanting disturbed areas quickly with desired plants can reduce opportunities for ivy to establish, and maintaining a buffer zone around cultivated areas can help contain its spread.
Potential Issues
Beyond its vigorous growth, Chinese Ivy presents other considerations for homeowners and gardeners. All parts of this plant contain saponins, which are compounds that can be toxic if ingested by humans or pets. Symptoms of ingestion often include gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and excessive drooling. Oral irritation, pain, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips may also occur. Contact with the plant’s sap can also cause skin irritation.
Chinese Ivy’s climbing nature and adhesive rootlets can also lead to physical damage to structures. While its aerial roots do not inherently bore into sound masonry, they can penetrate existing cracks and joints in older or compromised walls, potentially enlarging them as the roots expand. Dense ivy growth can also trap moisture against building surfaces, exacerbating dampness issues, and its creeping stems may lift roof components or clog gutters if not managed. Additionally, the sheer weight of mature, woody vines can exert significant force, potentially damaging trellises or other supports.