Ivy
British native · Climber
Ivy is a native evergreen climber, Hedera helix, whose mature shoots carry rounded flower clusters in autumn and berries through winter. It can clothe fences, banks and tree trunks, creating dense, year-round cover. Far from being merely background greenery, it is one of the most important late-season wildlife plants in Britain.
Why grow it
Ivy fills a vital seasonal gap, flowering when many garden plants have finished and fruiting when winter food is scarce. It creates a green refuge on boundaries and can transform a bare wall or fence into living habitat. It is an RHS Plants for Pollinators plant, particularly valuable for late-flying insects and winter birds.
How to grow it
Grow Ivy in sun, shade or partial shade, in most reasonably drained soils. Plant container-grown specimens at the base of a wall, fence or sturdy support, about 45 to 60 cm apart, and water regularly during their first year. Guide young shoots initially, then prune annually to keep growth away from gutters, roofs, windows and delicate structures. Ivy does not harm sound walls or healthy trees, and can be managed easily with timely trimming.
Wildlife value
Its autumn flowers are visited by bumblebees, honeybees, solitary bees, hoverflies and ivy bees, as well as late butterflies. Winter berries feed blackbirds, thrushes and other birds. The evergreen foliage provides sheltered roosting, nesting and overwintering cover for birds, insects and small garden creatures throughout the year.
Tips
Retain mature flowering growth whenever possible, pruning after birds have finished nesting and before growth reaches vulnerable features. Check dense cover carefully before cutting. Choose UK native-origin Ivy from reputable suppliers, and do not remove plants or cuttings from woodland, walls or wild hedges.
Growing Ivy: frequently asked questions
Why grow ivy in a UK garden?
Ivy fills a vital seasonal gap, flowering when many garden plants have finished and fruiting when winter food is scarce.
How do I grow ivy?
Grow Ivy in sun, shade or partial shade, in most reasonably drained soils.
What wildlife does ivy support?
Its autumn flowers are visited by bumblebees, honeybees, solitary bees, hoverflies and ivy bees, as well as late butterflies.
Grow native plants of UK origin from reputable suppliers, never collected from the wild. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.