Ivy’s on the up

Think it’s an ugly parasite? You couldn’t be more wrong about this versatile climber

There is no doubt that ivy has suffered from an image problem. Some consider it an invasive brute that’s responsible for strangling or sucking the life out of trees, and disfiguring houses by damaging brickwork, guttering and downpipes. Other gardeners simply think it’s a dull, funereal climber that will make dark, shady spots even gloomier.

Well, let’s bust some myths about these much maligned plants. First of all, ivy is not a parasite that robs trees of moisture and nutrients, because its roots do not penetrate bark. Ivy is only detrimental to weak or diseased trees, as they can’t support the extra weight in their canopies.

Aerial roots used by stems to cling on to surfaces will infiltrate cracks in poor masonry on buildings but are unlikely to impair sound brickwork.

Regular pruning will prevent it from engulfing gutters, pulling down pipes and damaging painted exterior woodwork.

As for its dreary appearance, common ivy (Hedera helix) and several other species with dark green leaves might be a little sombre, but there are plenty of other varieties that have showier foliage.

Apart for their ornamental value, ivies are one of the best plants to grow if you want to attract wildlife. The foliage provides a place for birds to build nests and insects to shelter, while the flowers are a rich source of nectar for butterflies in autumn. Several kinds of birds love the black berries that follow.

A large clan of evergreen climbers, and the occasionally non-climbing bush, ivies are indigenous to Europe, Asia and Africa.

Two species are native to Ireland: the previously mentioned common ivy, and Irish or Atlantic ivy (Hedera hibernica), which has slightly larger leaves.

As a rule, green ones tend to thrive in the densest shade, while silver variegated forms need a tad more light. Varieties that boast yellow leaves or golden markings will fade if not set in full sun.

As far as I’m concerned, silver variegated forms are invaluable for illuminating poorly lit spots. For many years, the go-to variety was H. helix ‘Glacier’, a debutant from 1950 with silver, grey and cream leaves.

Looking after ivies is easy. As they are self-clinging, plants don’t require securing to supports – keep them within bounds by trimming in mid-spring.