Description:
About four or five species of Hedera are native to Africa, Asia, and Europe. They
are evergreen vines. This species is native to north Africa and southern Europe. Algerian ivy can be grown as a ground cover but
must be controlled. It can grow straight up a wall or tree trunk with its stem
rooting to the surface as it grows. These roots may be damage brick walls by
entering and enlarging small cracks in the morter. It is grown as a house plant
in cold climates.
The leaves and growth of ivies change as the plants grow
upright onto their supports. On the upper parts of the plant, its leaves become
more rounded and stems more compact. The plant produces flowers on this growth.
Care Instructions:
Light: sun, part shade, shade
Water: moist soil, well-drained soil, somewhat drought tolerant in shade
Soil: adaptable to soil types, no other special requirements
This plant must be near its northern limit in Jacksonville. Reportedly, it is damaged at winter temperatures below 20 F. On campus, it is protected from frosts by overhanging stairways and roofs. In dry locations, it is susceptible to scale insect infestations.
