Pia Tree Ivy (Fatshedera lizei ‘Pia’) is a distinctive ornamental plant, also commonly known as “Curly Tree Ivy.” This unique hybrid combines the characteristics of Fatsia japonica and Hedera helix. Unlike its parent Hedera helix (English Ivy), which can be a vining, invasive plant with distinct juvenile and mature leaf forms, Pia Tree Ivy grows upright “like a tree” and does not exhibit the climbing or invasive characteristics of Hedera helix. Understanding the mature form of Pia Tree Ivy is helpful for successful cultivation and ongoing care, ensuring its full potential is realized.
Characteristics of Mature Pia Tree Ivy
A fully grown Pia Tree Ivy typically reaches a height of 4 to 6 feet, though some specimens of its broader species, Fatshedera lizei, can extend up to 8 to 10 feet under optimal conditions. Unlike many true ivies, this plant develops an upright, shrub-like growth habit rather than a sprawling vine. It forms a central woody stem, giving it a tree-like appearance, and generally does not require external support until it grows beyond three feet tall.
The foliage of mature Pia Tree Ivy is particularly striking, featuring leaves that can expand up to 8 inches wide. These leaves retain the classic ivy shape with five to seven distinct lobes, yet they possess a unique wavy texture and curled edges. This distinct leaf morphology contributes to its common name, “Curly Tree Ivy.” As a sterile hybrid, Pia Tree Ivy propagates primarily through stem cuttings and does not typically produce flowers or berries.
Height and Spread
Pia Tree Ivy can grow to around 4-6 feet tall. Some sources indicate that Fatshedera lizei can reach 8-10 feet. It grows more upright than regular ivy and has a shrubby growth, generally not needing support until it’s over three feet tall.
Leaf Morphology
Leaves have a classic ivy shape with five to seven lobes. They are notable for their curled edges and very wavy texture. These leaves can grow up to 8 inches wide, adding to the plant’s visual appeal.
Stem/Trunk
The plant develops on a trunk-like stem, which becomes more woody at maturity. This characteristic contributes to its tree-like appearance.
Flowers and Berries
Pia Tree Ivy is a sterile hybrid, meaning it propagates by stem cuttings rather than seeds. Consequently, it does not typically produce viable flowers or berries.
Factors Affecting Full Growth
Several environmental conditions influence how Pia Tree Ivy reaches its full mature size and form. Light exposure plays a significant role; the plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Insufficient light can lead to sparse foliage, while direct sunlight may cause leaf sunburn and discoloration. Finding a spot with dappled sunlight or filtered light helps maintain its vibrant appearance.
Soil quality is another important factor for robust growth. Pia Tree Ivy prefers a well-draining potting mix that remains consistently moist but never waterlogged. A light, fast-draining soil, potentially a loamy or sandy type with a slightly acidic to alkaline pH, supports healthy root development. Regular watering is important, as the plant can show signs of drooping if it does not receive enough moisture.
Optimal growth also depends on suitable temperatures and humidity levels. Pia Tree Ivy is generally recommended for indoor cultivation in most climates, though it can tolerate outdoor conditions in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11. It is considered a moderate to rapid grower, and consistent care, including annual repotting into a slightly larger container at the start of the growing season, promotes its development.
Light Exposure
Pia Tree Ivy prefers bright indirect light. Too little light can lead to sparse leaves, while too much direct sun may cause sunburn. The plant can tolerate low light but may become lanky, and bright light can scorch leaves if not filtered. Dappled sunlight is suitable for optimal health.
Soil Quality
The plant prefers consistently moist soil, but it must not be soggy. A light, fast-draining potting soil is recommended. Loamy or sandy soil types, with a slightly acidic to alkaline pH and good aeration, are ideal for healthy root systems.
Water Availability
Consistently moist soil is essential for Pia Tree Ivy. The plant will visibly droop when it has not received enough water. Watering at least once a week is typically sufficient for normal to dry humidity conditions, helping to maintain lush foliage.
Climate Zone
Pia Tree Ivy is suitable for outdoor cultivation only in USDA zones 8-11. In other regions, it is primarily grown as an indoor plant due to its temperature requirements.
Growth Rate/Timeframe
Pia Tree Ivy is considered a moderate to rapid grower. For optimal growth, annual repotting into a slightly larger container is recommended at the beginning of the growing season.
Managing Full Grown Pia Tree Ivy
Maintaining a full grown Pia Tree Ivy involves consistent care practices, particularly pruning, to manage its size and shape. Regular pruning helps to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Gardeners can trim back any overly vigorous shoots and remove dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves to promote overall plant health.
The best time for significant pruning is typically in late winter to early spring, aligning with the plant’s dormant phase before new growth begins. Unlike some of its ivy relatives, Pia Tree Ivy does not produce aerial roots that cling to surfaces, meaning it will not invasively climb or damage structures. This upright growth habit simplifies containment, as it naturally maintains a more controlled form compared to vining ivies.
While Pia Tree Ivy is generally easy to manage, its vigorous growth can still necessitate occasional trimming to keep it within desired dimensions. It is important to note that this plant is toxic if ingested by humans or animals, so placement should be considered carefully in households with pets or small children. Regular monitoring and appropriate pruning ensure the plant remains an attractive and healthy specimen in any setting.
Pruning
Regular pruning is important to maintain the plant’s shape and control its size. This practice involves removing dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves. Trimming leggy branches also encourages bushier growth. While late winter to early spring is optimal, pruning can be done any time.
Containment
Pia Tree Ivy does not wind around, climb, or stick with sucker roots like typical ivy. This characteristic makes it less prone to spreading invasively compared to Hedera helix. Its natural upright, shrubby growth simplifies containment and management.
Potential Concerns
It is important to be aware that Pia Tree Ivy is toxic if ingested by humans or animals. Therefore, careful consideration should be given to its placement in households with pets or small children. Unlike Hedera helix, it is not considered invasive.