A Comprehensive Guide to Different Types of Ivy

Ivy plants are an incredibly versatile and hardy addition to any garden or indoor space. With varieties ranging from classic English to unique cultivars like Needlepoint and Treasure ivy, these climbers, ground covers, and hanging plants bring beauty and practicality to your landscapes. Whether you’re looking to add a lush, green backdrop or cover an unsightly fence, there’s a type of ivy perfect for every need. This guide will explain the most popular types of ivy, offering tips on growing and caring for each variety to achieve the best results in your home or garden.

1. English

Also known as just ivy, European ivy, common ivy, or King’s Choice ivy, English ivy (Hedera helix) is a popular climbing plant known for its ability to thrive in various conditions, preferring shaded areas. It can grow both indoors and outdoors, so it’s often used to cover walls, fences, and even the ground as ground cover. Regular pruning helps control its spread, as it can quickly become invasive in favorable climates. English ivy thrives in well-drained soil and can be propagated from cuttings.

Hanging pot of English ivy with green and white leaves near a balcony railing. — Source: @ArtBackground via Shutterstock

2. Boston

Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) is distinct for its vibrant red and purple leaves in autumn. It’s also called grape ivy. Unlike English Ivy, it has adhesive tendrils that attach to surfaces without the need for support. Boston ivy grows quickly, so be mindful of its placement to avoid overwhelming nearby structures. It performs best in partial shade to full sun and well-drained soil.

Historic building covered in red and green Boston ivy around windows. — Source: @gardeningwithcharlie.com via Pinterest

3. Algerian

Algerian ivy (Hedera algeriensis) is a fast-growing variety known for its large, glossy, dark green leaves. This ivy species is often used as an ornamental plant for covering walls and fences but requires a little more care in colder climates. It thrives in slightly warmer environments and can tolerate various lighting conditions, though it prefers partial shade. Keep an eye on its growth as it tends to be quite vigorous, and pruning may be necessary to manage its spread.

Variegated Algerian ivy leaves with green and white patterns. — Source: @mydomaine via Pinterest

4. Persian

Persian ivy or colchis ivy (Hedera colchica) is an ivy species that features large, leathery leaves with a rich dark green color and subtle white veins. It grows well in shaded or semi-shaded areas and is more tolerant of cold weather compared to other ivy types. Persian ivy makes an excellent choice for ground cover and hanging baskets. Its spreading nature means it needs regular pruning to maintain its form, especially when planted as a decorative ground cover or a climber.

Potted Persian ivy with vibrant green leaves in a decorative white ceramic pot. — Source: @thelittleplanthouse_ via Instagram

5. Irish

Irish ivy or Atlantic ivy (Hedera hibernica) is often confused with English Ivy due to its similar appearance, but it has a more upright growth habit. This ivy is well-suited to colder climates and can be an excellent ground cover, especially in areas with partial to full shade. It grows well in moist, well-drained soil and doesn’t require much attention once established. Regular pruning will keep it from overtaking structures or other plants in your garden.

Close-up of a vibrant green Irish ivy leaf with visible veins and natural texture. — Source: @Anna Gratys via Shutterstock

6. Japanese

Japanese ivy or songak (Hedera rhombea) is a less common but appealing ivy species with heart-shaped leaves that vary from green to slightly variegated shades. It’s suitable for growing in both full sun and partial shade, making it quite versatile in garden designs. Japanese Ivy is also quite hardy and can withstand periods of drought. Though it is a slow grower compared to other ivies, it still requires some management to prevent it from overtaking its surroundings.

Potted Japanese ivy with variegated green and yellow leaves in a terracotta pot. — Source: @ponyo_o422 via Instagram

7. Swedish

Swedish ivy, whorled plectranthus, or Swedish begonia (Plectranthus australis), is actually a member of the mint family, not a true ivy. However, it’s often included in ivy discussions because of its trailing growth pattern and similar care needs. Swedish ivy thrives in indirect sunlight and can tolerate some neglect. However, it may need occasional pruning.

Close-up of Swedish ivy with green and white variegated leaves in a small pot. — Source: @etsy via Pinterest

8. Grape

Grape ivy, Venezuela treebine, or oak leaf ivy (Cissus alata) stands out for its unique, deeply lobed leaves and trailing vines. While it can be grown indoors or outdoors, it particularly thrives in warmer, more humid climates. This plant can add a tropical feel to your space. It requires moderate watering and should be kept in areas that receive partial sunlight. As a fast grower, it will need some regular maintenance to keep it from becoming too unruly.

Grape ivy with lush green leaves cascading from a black metal shelf. — Source: @greg.app via Pinterest

9. Poison

Poison ivy or eastern poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is notorious for causing skin irritation through contact with its urushiol oil. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the plant’s appearance to avoid accidental contact. Poison ivy often grows as a climbing vine but can also appear as a shrub. You need to use protective clothing when removing or handling this plant.

Hanging basket with poison ivy cascading in front of a red brick wall. — Source: @feebs_prints via Instagram

10. Himalayan

Himalayan ivy or chang chun teng (Hedera nepalensis) has large, leathery leaves and produces small yellow-green flowers in late winter or early spring. Himalayan ivy does best in shaded areas but can tolerate some sun if it has access to enough water. It’s important to regularly prune this plant to control its spread, especially if planted near structures or trees.

Himalayan ivy with dark green leaves climbing a tree trunk in natural sunlight. — Source: @Yafyna via Shutterstock

11. Canary Island

Canary Island ivy, Madera ivy, or Canary ivy (Hedera canariensis) is distinguished by its broad, deep green leaves and rapid growth. Native to the Canary Islands, this ivy species thrives in warmer climates but can still adapt to cooler conditions. It’s excellent for creating lush green coverage on walls or fences. Canary Island Ivy does well in a variety of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade, but prefers slightly more moisture than some other ivy varieties.

Potted Canary Island ivy with variegated leaves supported by black trellises in a plant nursery. — Source: @oasis.plant.pet via Instagram

12. Glacier

Glacier ivy (Hedera helix ‘Glacier’) has distinctive variegated leaves with pale green and white patterns. It’s often chosen for its aesthetic appeal in both indoor and outdoor settings. This variety grows well in partial shade and likes moist, well-drained soil. Glacier ivy tends to be less aggressive than other ivy types, which makes it a good choice for more controlled spaces like containers or hanging baskets. Be sure to trim back any excessive growth to keep the plant from becoming too unruly.

Glacier ivy with variegated green and white leaves in a textured white ceramic pot. — Source: @Magic Gun via Shutterstock

13. Goldchild

Goldchild ivy (Hedera helix ‘Goldchild’) is a striking variegated variety known for its bright yellow edges on green leaves. This ivy is often used to add a pop of color to garden spaces or indoor planters. Goldchild ivy thrives in partial to full shade and is relatively easy to care for. It does well in most soil types but prefers moist, well-drained conditions. Frequent pruning will help maintain its neat appearance and prevent it from overtaking other plants.

Goldchild ivy with green leaves featuring bright yellow variegated edges. — Source: @Dan Gabriel Atanasie via Shutterstock

14. Needlepoint

Needlepoint ivy (Hedera helix ‘Needlepoint’) is characterized by its narrow, spiky leaves that create a distinctive appearance. This ivy is an excellent option for both ground cover and climbing, growing well in shaded to partially shaded areas. Needlepoint ivy prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of conditions. Keep it tidy with periodic trimming.

Needlepoint ivy with slender, pointed green leaves in a dense cluster. — Source: @Erin Carpenter via Shutterstock

15. Miniature

Miniature ivy (Hedera helix ‘Minima’) is a compact version of the traditional ivy, ideal for containers or small indoor spaces. Despite its smaller size, it can still spread quickly, so it’s important to prune it regularly. Miniature ivy thrives in indirect sunlight and requires moist, well-drained soil to maintain its health. It’s also a popular choice for terrariums and hanging baskets due to its delicate leaves.

Miniature ivy with thin, delicate green leaves growing densely together. — Source: @iPlantsman via Shutterstock

16. Fan

Fan ivy (Hedera helix ‘Fan’) is a less common ivy variety with distinctive fan-shaped leaves that provide a unique appearance compared to other ivies. It’s often used for decorative purposes in gardens or as an ornamental plant indoors. Like other ivy species, fan ivy grows best in shaded conditions with adequate moisture. Regular pruning will keep its shape neat and prevent it from becoming too invasive.

Fan ivy with lush green leaves in a patterned white ceramic pot. — Source: @dianetonnessen via Instagram

17. Buttercup

Buttercup ivy (Hedera helix ‘Buttercup’) is a visually appealing variety with bright yellowish-green leaves that resemble the color of buttercups. It thrives in shaded areas and is well-suited for creating ground cover or climbing on structures. Buttercup ivy requires moderate watering and should not be allowed to dry out completely. Periodic trimming will keep it from becoming too overgrown and ensure it maintains its vibrant color.

Buttercup ivy with bright yellow-green leaves climbing against a brick wall. — Source: @plantsinsider via Instagram

18. Bettina

Bettina ivy (Hedera helix ‘Bettina’) features small, rounded leaves with a soft green color, making it a great choice for smaller spaces. It grows well in containers, hanging baskets, or as ground cover in shady locations. Bettina ivy requires regular pruning to maintain its form and prevent it from spreading too rapidly. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil but is relatively low-maintenance once established.

Bettina ivy with variegated green and white leaves in a terracotta pot on a wooden table. — Source: @honest.ivy via Instagram