Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Algerian Ivy

I have two clay planters attached to the walls of my patio.  I have tried several different plantings through the years and the most successful is Algerian Ivy (Hedra Canariensis).  It is a perennial in zones 8 - 10 and an annual elsewhere.  This is obviously considered a "spiller" in your container plantings.

I prefer the variegated Algerian Ivy because in the partial shade under the pergola it has a glow about it.  I have learned to buy the larger plants and also to purchase two for each container.  Many years I would try to get by with one in each planter because they are expensive, just didn't work, was not full enough to make a statement.

This is an unusual ivy because it is so large.  The leaves are at least 3" across.  It is very effective in containers with multiple plantings as it trails down the sides.  The varieties are in a solid green and green with a white rim.  I prefer the variegated but both are attractive.

7 comments:

Lona said...

I love the variegated Eileen.
Glad you got that feed problem figured out and fixed. ;-)

Gatsbys Gardens said...

I will take a picture of it when I get it in the planters,if it ever warms up!

I hope it's fixed, thanks for the heads up.

Eileen

Carol said...

I love the solid green ivy! Right now I love anything green... looking forward to it coming my way!! ;>)

Gatsbys Gardens said...

I know where you are coming from! I just came home and it is 34 degrees outside. Where is spring?

Eileen

joey said...

I 'always' keep variegated ivy in the home as a houseplant, Eileen. As you have beautifully shown, it's very photogenic!

Tootsie said...

Oh I love ivy!!! I don't have much luck with it...but I always try!

Gatsbys Gardens said...

I know Tootsie, It doesn't do well for me in the house, but I only use it outside now in containers. It has the air circulation outside and does beautifully.

Eileen