Plant Library
English Ivy Care Guide
Hedera helix
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
English ivy is the classic trailing plant for baskets, shelves and topiary, with dozens of leaf shapes and variegations. Indoors it prefers cooler rooms.
Plant profile
- Light
- Medium to bright indirect light; tolerates some sun
- Water
- When the top 1 in of soil is dry
- Humidity
- Average to high; dislikes hot, dry air
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Size
- Trailing vines 3-6 ft indoors
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
Light
Medium to bright indirect light; tolerates some sun. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
When the top 1 in of soil is dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: average to high; dislikes hot, dry air. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Keep it away from heaters and rinse the leaves now and then; warm, dry air invites spider mites.
Common problems
- Crispy leaves: Hot, dry air; move away from heat.
- Webbing under leaves: Spider mites; shower the plant.
- Loss of variegation: Too little light.
Pets
Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. If a pet chews it and shows symptoms, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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