Hedera helix 'Lingusta' - English Ivy

The humble Hedera helix is a familiar sight outdoors, climbing walls, fences, and tree trunks across the UK. But have you ever thought about growing this classic foliage plant indoors? You may think it would be easy seeing how well it grows outdoors, but ivy can be a challenge indoors - it will grow best in an unheated porch or conservatory, or if you have a tricky spot that's too draughty for most houseplants. This variety stands out, too; while the texture and colour of the leaves is very typical for ivy, the shape is more unusual as each leaf is long, slim and almost heart-shaped. Bring some foliage to a difficult indoor spot with this draught-loving trailer.

Scientific Name
Hedera helix 'Lingusta' (twisting ivy, cultivar: tongue-like)

Synonyms: Hedera communis, Hedera poetarum, Hedera poetica

As a European native, this plant has been recognised under the same name for centuries; it was first names in 1753, the year that the Linnaean classification system was established.

Common Name
Common Ivy, English Ivy, European Ivy, Ivy, Atlantic Ivy

Origin
Native across Europe, including the UK and Ireland, all of mainland Europe, western Russia, Türkey and the Caucasus

Light
Bright, indirect light is best- avoid sunny spots as this will scorch and dehydrate your ivy. It can tolerate some shade indoors but make sure it's not too dark!

Water
Water once the top inch or two of soil has dried out; ivy is not drought-tolerant but also does not like to sit in soggy soil. Make sure to water less frequently in a shady spot.

Humidity
Likes high humidity, but make sure the air around it circulates too. Introducing a humidity tray will help if your home is warm and dry.

Soil
Use a well-draining but moisture-retentive mix; one designed for ferns would work well for ivy's similar needs! Repot every three years in spring; adding grit will help keep those in shadier locations draining well.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Can stand temperatures from -5 to 30°C. Just make sure it's not too hot in summer, and not too close to a radiator in winter.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.

Sprouts Top Tips
For care tips, think about where ivy grows outside and mimic those conditions; make sure you have somewhere for it to grow along or hang down from as it grows longer!