Hedera helix : The climbing plant

European settlers brought English ivy to North America as early as 1727. It is commonly grown because of its green, year-round leaves and its reputation as a low-maintenance groundcover.

Even though it is known to be a serious weed that harms natural ecosystems, parks, and gardens, it is still sold and promoted as a decorative plant in the U.S. Much time, effort, and resources are spent trying to control its spread on public and private lands.

English ivy is present mainly in the eastern United States and in parts of the West. Its range extends from Arizona up to Washington State. The plant grows well in shaded areas or full sun, especially in soils that are moist and have moderate fertility.

It cannot survive drought or salty soil. It tends to invade places like forest edges, open areas, fields, cliffs, steep slopes, and disturbed land.

English ivy is a fast-growing plant that poses a serious threat to many types of plants. It spreads on the ground and climbs into the trees. Its vines wrap around tree trunks and branches, blocking sunlight from reaching the leaves.

This prevents the trees from making food through photosynthesis. A tree with ivy may weaken over several years until it eventually dies. The weight of the vines can also cause trees to fall during strong winds.

English ivy also acts as a host for a bacteria called Xylella fastidiosa, which causes leaf scorch. This disease affects many native and ornamental trees like elms, oaks, and maples.

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