In a discussion of ivy, it is important to distinguish between English ivy, the trailing or vining plant form belonging to the genus Hedera, and Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata), the vine often found growing on brick houses, as well as Wrigley Field. English ivy is a hardy, woody, evergreen perennial that needs little light or water once established and can grow either as a groundcover or a vine. Raising ivy as a houseplant As a houseplant, ivy will never get out of hand. Ivy needs protection from winter winds as well as the hot summer sun, so plant appropriately. English ivy, also called Hedera helix, is a great way to add a pop of green indoors. This ivy is fast growing and evergreen. English ivy is a truly versatile plant. English ivy will enhance a hanging container or large clay pot by cascading down the sides. A native of Europe and Asia, English ivy is an evergreen, woody vine available in many forms including variegated green and white foliage. Ivy is common both growing in the ground and in containers, window boxes and planters. A vine-covered arbor makes a lovely garden entryway, and vines growing on lattice can shield a porch from hot summer sun — and from your neighbors. It is used as a ground cover, in topiary displays, in hanging baskets, or English ivy can be grown in the ground or in containers, indoors or outdoors, and can survive in shade, partial shade, or full sun. In about a month the stem will begin to develop new roots and can be transplanted into a container of potting soil. Uses Of English Ivy English ivy (Hedera helix) can become a pest in forested areas, but the variegated version makes a good container plant when given a support to climb. Ivy is beautiful but is also considered an invasive plant in some places because of its aggressive growth habit. Many people grow it as a houseplant because it actually does better in the indirect light found indoors. With the right light, water, and care, it can be one of the most beautiful indoor plants, exelling in containers and cascading from hanging baskets. Keep it in a bright location and change the water every few days. Ivy is very easy to propagate–just snip off a stem near the base of the plant and place it in a glass of water. This beautiful plant also filters and purifies air making it a great houseplant. English Ivy (Hedera helix) is a popular ground cover for shaded Texas gardens, but is also useful and attractive when grown in containers. Growing vines on trellises and other supports is a good way to add height to container plantings. Grow the ivy with a combination of brightly hued flowers and the ivy that spills down the sides will be eye appealing. Container-grown ivy plants look lovely as ornamental … Although English ivy is actually considered an invasive species in some regions, it is a popular choice for ground cover, or to grow up a wall, trellis, or other structure. Growing it as an indoor plant can be an absolute joy. Propagating Ivy. Many perennial … Put the ivy in a container that's just large enough to hold the roots and put it somewhere it will get lots of indirect light. At home indoors or out, English ivy does well planted in containers or baskets where its trailing vines can hang down. Finally, it makes a fantastic house plant, even in areas where it’s invasive. English ivy is widely known to be capable of causing damage to trees and brickwork. Growing ivy in containers is okay in most of these areas as long as these methods are followed. “Needle Point” types have more pointed leaves. But be very mindful of your plant and make sure it doesn’t start to spread locally.