Pia Tree Ivy, botanically known as Fatshedera lizei ‘Pia’, is a distinctive hybrid plant. This cultivar is often referred to as “Curly Tree Ivy” due to its characteristic foliage. It developed from a cross between Fatsia japonica and Hedera helix, English Ivy. Its growth habit is more upright than traditional vining ivies, forming a bushy, tree-like structure.
Key Benefits of Pia Tree Ivy
Pia Tree Ivy offers aesthetic and air-purifying benefits for indoor and outdoor spaces. Its unique appearance makes it a captivating addition to home decor, offering lush, full foliage that can grow up to 8 inches wide. This upright growth habit allows it to function effectively as a floor plant.
Beyond its visual appeal, Pia Tree Ivy improves indoor air quality. It removes harmful toxins, contributing to a healthier environment. Research conducted by NASA has indicated that certain ivy varieties, including its parent English Ivy, are effective in purifying air and reducing mold. These properties make Pia Tree Ivy a practical choice for offices or bedrooms.
While Pia Tree Ivy is primarily ornamental, its English Ivy parent (Hedera helix) has a long history of traditional medicinal applications. Extracts from common ivy leaves have been utilized in herbal medicine for respiratory ailments such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. These effects are largely attributed to saponins, also used historically for anti-inflammatory properties.
The general category of ivy, including Pia Tree Ivy’s parent, supports wildlife and stabilizes ecosystems. Dense ivy foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for birds, and its late-season flowers offer nectar for insects. As a ground cover, ivy helps stabilize soil, reducing erosion.
Important Considerations
Pia Tree Ivy is considered toxic to humans and animals if ingested. The berries and leaves of its parent, English Ivy, contain saponins that can cause symptoms such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, colic, and diarrhea if consumed. Keep Pia Tree Ivy out of reach of children and pets.
Direct skin contact with English Ivy leaves can also lead to irritation, including itchy rashes and inflammation, due to a compound called falcarinol. Wear gloves when handling or pruning Pia Tree Ivy to avoid skin reactions.
Pia Tree Ivy thrives in bright, indirect light; too little light can cause it to become leggy, and too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. It requires consistently moist soil but is susceptible to root rot if the soil becomes waterlogged, requiring well-draining potting mixes. It typically grows 4 to 6 feet tall, though some specimens can reach up to 10 feet. While its English Ivy parent is known for its invasive tendencies in some regions, Fatshedera hybrids like Pia Tree Ivy are generally not considered invasive in outdoor landscapes. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages bushier growth.