Hedera helix (Non-native)

Common Name
English ivy
Common ivy
Plant Form
Shrubs & Small Trees
Region
Coastal
Piedmont
Considered Invasive?
Yes
Threat Level
Medium
Additional Info

Notes: One of the most popular ground covers in North America, this non-native climbing vine was introduced by early European colonists. Its vigorous growth creates an “ivy desert” as it chokes out other plants on the ground, and it poses a threat to both buildings and trees as it grows up vertical surfaces. The plant is reported as invasive throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region, including Alexandria and Arlington, Virginia.

Method of removal: Hand pull where practical, otherwise foliar spray when native plants are dormant.

Additional Note: MGNV's Suggested replacement: Rhus aromatica is the "Gro-Low" cultivar (Rhus aromatica ‘Gro-Low’ (Fragrant Sumac))

Species-specific links
Digital Atlas of the Virginia Flora - Hedera helix
Master Gardeners Northern VA - Invasive Plant Factsheet
Blue Ridge PRISM - English Ivy and Winter Creeper
Gardenia: Native Plant Alternatives for this species
Additional links
Non-native Invasive Plants of Arlington County, Virginia
Invasive Plants in Virginia’s Capital Region and Regional Native Alternatives
Invasive Plant Management - Plant NoVA Natives
Reston Association: Invasive Plants Prohibited in Reston
Virginia House Bill 1941 (HB41)

Photographer: Jessica Crivello
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original Photo

Photographer: greerk
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF):
Gallery of iNaturalist Research-grade Observations