Advanced Search Filters

Plant Type
Hardiness Zone
Heat Zone
Sunset Zone
Function
Sun Exposure
Soil Moisture
Water Requirement

HEDERA canariensis 'Variegata'

Image of Hedera canariensis 'Variegata'

Grandiflora

Family

Araliaceae

Botanical Name

HEDERA canariensis 'Variegata'

Plant Common Name

Canary Ivy, Variegated Algerian Ivy

General Description

The dark green leaves of this attractive variegated ivy have gray-green marbling and creamy white margins. This tender, large-leaved ivy is a popular southern vine and groundcover with leathery, heart-shaped leaves with wine-red stems, or petioles. As its common name indicates, it is native to the Canary Islands, Azores, Algeria and Portugal where it is well-adapted to both tropical and subtropical climates and withstands tough growing conditions.

This fast-growing vine twines and clings to walls and trees via root-like structures that appear along the stems. Algerian ivy is grown primarily for its foliage, which makes a dense cover on walls or the ground. The flowers are insignificant as are the fruits, though like common English ivy the black, waxy fruits are eaten and dispersed by birds.

For best results, plant Canary ivy in full sun or partial shade and fertile soil that is well drained. Provide it with protection from winter sun and wind, especially where marginally hardy. This ivy is quick to establish and faster growing than English ivy. It can become quite invasive if it appears where it is not welcome. In fact, it has become naturalized in several counties in California.

Characteristics

  • AHS Heat Zone

    12 - 6

  • USDA Hardiness Zone

    7 - 11

  • Sunset Zone

    5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24

  • Plant Type

    Vine/Liana

  • Sun Exposure

    Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

  • Height

    20'-30' / 6.1m - 9.1m

  • Width

    20'-30' / 6.1m - 9.1m

  • Bloom Time

    Late Summer, Early Fall

  • Native To

    Canary Islands, Northern Africa

Growing Conditions

  • Soil pH

    Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

  • Soil Drainage

    Well Drained

  • Soil type

    Clay, Loam, Sand

  • Tolerances

    Salt

  • Growth Rate

    Fast

  • Water Requirements

    Average Water

  • Habit

    Vining/Climbing

  • Seasonal Interest

    Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Ornamental Features

  • Flower Interest

    Insignificant

  • Flower Color

    Green

  • Foliage Color (Spring)

    White, Gray Green, Dark Green, Ivory

  • Foliage Color (Spring) Modifier

    Variegated, Spotted/Mottled

  • Foliage Color (Summer)

    White, Green, Gray Green, Dark Green, Ivory

  • Foliage Color (Summer) Modifier

    Variegated, Spotted/Mottled

  • Foliage Color (Fall)

    White, Gray Green, Dark Green

  • Foliage Color (Fall) Modifier

    Variegated, Spotted/Mottled

  • Foliage Color (Winter)

    Green, Gray Green, Ivory

  • Foliage Color (Winter) Modifier

    Variegated, SpottedMottled

  • Bark Color

    Burgundy, Gray

  • Fragrant Flowers

    No

  • Fragrant Fruit

    No

  • Fragrant Foliage

    No

  • Bark or Stem Fragrant

    No

  • Flower Petal Number

    Single

  • Repeat Bloomer

    No

  • Showy Fruit

    No

  • Edible Fruit

    No

  • Showy Foliage

    Yes

  • Foliage Texture

    Medium

  • Foliage Sheen

    Glossy

  • Evergreen

    Yes

  • Showy Bark

    No

Special Characteristics

  • Bark Texture

    Smooth

  • Usage

    Container, Groundcover, Hanging Basket, Houseplant, Rock Garden / Wall, Vine

  • Sharp or Has Thorns

    No

  • Invasive

    Sometimes

  • Attracts

    Birds

  • Self-Sowing

    No