Hedera helix ObelixHedera helix Kappeln - Common ivy

Hedera helix 'Obelix' is a climbing cultivar of the common ivy that will charm with the beauty of its evergreen foliage, both imposing and delicate. This ornamental ivy variety is particularly appreciated for its ability to quickly and beautifully cover vertical surfaces. Used in gardens or in pots, it easily adapts to different environments, combining aesthetics and functionality. Its cold resistance and robustness also make this ivy a low-maintenance plant. 

Ivies belong to the Araliaceae family making them cousins of Ginseng and fatsias. Hedera helix 'Obelix' comes from common ivy, found everywhere in forests, countryside, and gardens and native to the entire temperate Eurasian zone of the northern hemisphere. Ivy stems attach themselves to supports using powerful climbing roots. This plant has produced numerous cultivars of varying sizes, with diverse foliage, some capable of flowering and fruiting once mature. The foliage borne by the stems that will flower, located higher on the plant, is different from the foliage borne by the juvenile stems. Ivy's greenish flowering, in the form of globular inflorescences, is an excellent nectar source for bees. It is followed by black-blue berries, toxic to humans but an excellent winter food source for birds.

Hedera helix 'Obelix' is a cultivar derived from the 'Classy Lassie' variety. Its vigorous growth and climbing habit allow it to reach 3 m in height when supported by a trellis or suitable structure. The leaves of this plant are relatively large, measuring around 6 cm wide by 10 cm long. They have prominent veins, and the leaf margin is often wavy to curly. Their colour is a bright green. 

Hedera helix 'Obelix' has rather long internodes, giving it a slightly sparse appearance compared to other ivy varieties. Its branches bear few leaves, but they are imposing enough to create an attractive visual effect. Although this ivy is not particularly known for its flowers, it can produce discreet inflorescences, followed by small black fruits. However, it is mainly cultivated for its dense and evergreen foliage. The bark, on the other hand, remains relatively discreet, playing a minor role in the plant's overall appeal.