Hedera helix Conglomerata - Common ivy

Hedera helix 'Conglomerata' is a rare cultivated dwarf form of common ivy. It is a miniature variety with a creeping habit, featuring a few upright stems with tiny evergreen leaves clustered on them. It thrives in shade or partial shade, in a small rockery, at the edge of woodlands, or under trees. It adapts to all soils, even limestone and dry in summer. Use it in a container on the terrace, mixed with other plants.

Ivies belong to the Araliaceae family. Hedera helix 'Conglomerata' is sometimes marketed under the names Hedera helix var. conglomerata or Hedera helix var. conglomerata erecta. This plant originates from common ivy, which is found everywhere in forests, countryside, and gardens. The common ivy is native to the entire temperate Eurasian zone of the northern hemisphere. Its foliage is evergreen in all regions.

Hedera helix 'Conglomerata' is a slow-growing creeping semi-shrub forming a clump about 30-40 cm high. It spreads on the ground over time, covering about 1 m². Its small triangular, 2 to 3 cm long and wide leaves are densely and regularly arranged on thick branches. Most of these branches lie on the ground, while some stand upright. Each leaf is marked with clear veins, giving it a marbled appearance. Young leaves are a beautiful light green, while mature leaves are a dull dark greyish green.

Hedera helix 'Conglomerata' is resistant to severe frost and drought and thrives everywhere except in hot exposures. It will bring a unique touch to poor areas of the garden, even in winter. This ivy looks lovely under trees or along a shaded pathway. Planted in a large pot, it forms unusual curtains. Easy to combine, it will complement robust dry woodland perennials such as acanthus, Corsican Hellebore, and Arum italicum for example.