Hedera helix

COMMON NAME : English Ivy

BOTANICAL NAME : Hedera helix

FAMILY : Araliaceae

PLANT GROUP : Weeds

LOCAL NOTES:

Initially planted as an ornamental garden plant, it has invaded many forested areas, creek banks, roadsides, and along the rail trail in South Gippsland.

It is commonly seen on Sandy Point blocks, nature strips and is widespread in the Coast Banksia area at Shallow Inlet.

If plants are left undisturbed English Ivy can climb high into tree tops and is reported to be capable of living for hundreds of years. New growth has green stems but these become thick and woody with age.

The plants smothers native vegetation thereby reducing plant diversity. Severing the stems of climbing vines is important for tree health. English Ivy spreads by stem rooting and seed. Care needs to be taken when removing English Ivy as short pieces of vine are capable of rooting.

It can be disposed of in the kerbside green waste bins in Sandy Point as it goes to a facility capable of composting green waste safely. SGLN provides information on management of English Ivy infestations.

Contributor: HB

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