Persian ivy is an evergreen woody vine that produces the largest leaves of any ivy species, unfurling leathery, heart-shaped foliage up to 10 inches long with a distinctive slightly wilted curl at the edges. Hardy from zones 6 to 9, it thrives in partial shade to full shade and grows vigorously, reaching 30 to 50 feet tall when left unpruned or 10 to 15 feet in five years with regular maintenance. Whether climbing vertical surfaces with aerial rootlets or spreading as a ground cover, this deep green foliage transforms shaded spaces into lush, textured landscapes that feel established and mature within a few years.
Partial Shade
Moderate
6-9
600in H x 240in W
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High
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The oversized, deeply textured leaves set Persian ivy apart from its smaller-leafed cousins, creating drama even in dim corners where other vines struggle. Its dual personality as both a climbing vine and a spreading ground cover means a single plant adapts to whatever role your garden needs. The thick, leathery foliage is evergreen, so you get year-round coverage and structure, while showy fruit appears in late fall as a bonus.
Persian ivy functions as a living screen for shaded walls and fences, a dense ground cover for difficult terrain, and a naturalized element in woodland gardens where it mimics its native habitat. The thick foliage is dense enough to mow down in large areas, making it practical for slopes and expansive shaded zones that resist traditional lawn grasses.
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Trim Persian ivy in early spring to control its vigorous growth and maintain an attractive appearance. For ground cover applications across large areas, you can use a rotary mower on a high setting if necessary to manage spread. As a climbing vine, pruning should focus on directing stems toward desired surfaces and removing any wayward growth; the plant's aerial rootlets adhere naturally to most surfaces, so avoid aggressive pruning that removes the climbing framework.
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