Hedera helix Wonder - Common ivy

Hedera helix 'Wonder' is a selection of common ivy appreciated for its attractive foliage and versatility. This evergreen climbing plant is characterised by its thick and leathery leaves, green with silvery highlights and rather compact growth. This makes it a good choice for hanging baskets and walls. Its ability to purify the air and create a soothing natural atmosphere is valued for interior decoration. It is also a hardy and undemanding plant, interesting for greening slightly shaded areas of the terrace or garden.

Ivies belong to the Araliaceae family. The Hedera genus includes about a dozen species, the most common in our latitudes being the Common Ivy, in Latin Hedera helix. This giant of our forests can reach lengths of tens of metres and climb to the tops of surrounding trees.

Hedera helix 'Wonder' is a variety with a much more modest growth whose stems will not exceed 4 m in height. Its small leaves are wide and rounded, with 3 coarsely toothed lobes with very distinct light veins. They are a fairly dark green, shiny, and have a silvery sheen. They are evergreen, so decorative all year round. The stems cling to supports on their own with strong climbing roots. In late summer or autumn, its greenish flowering, in the form of globular inflorescences, is an excellent nectar source for bees. This is followed by the formation of black berries, toxic to humans but an excellent winter food source for birds.

Hedera helix 'Wonder' is perfect for adding a touch of greenery to your interior, especially when used in hanging planters. This plant is also ideal for creating an elegant and natural ambience in the garden or on the terrace. Ivy pairs particularly well with ferns (such as Nephrolepis 'Artic Jungle'), Philodendron scandens, Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), and Chlorophytum comosum. These plants, like Hedera helix 'Wonder', thrive in shaded environments and together can create a lush and harmonious display. In the garden, pair it with easy-care woodland perennials like Epimedium, Lungworts, or Hellebores.