Overview
Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis (Willd.) Cout., commonly known as Canarian ivy, is a subspecies of the ivy family that is native to the Canary Islands. As a popular ornamental plant, Canarian ivy is grown for its attractive foliage, climbing and trailing habit, and its ability to adapt to different growing conditions.
Appearance
Canarian ivy is an evergreen, climbing or creeping plant that can reach up to 20-30 m in height. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a waxy texture. They are shaped like a triangle and can grow up to 10 cm in length. Similar to other subspecies of English ivy, Canarian ivy can produce aerial roots that help it climb up walls and trellises. Its flowers, which appear in autumn, are usually yellowish-green and have a distinctive shape, similar to an umbrella or an open hand.
Uses
Canarian ivy is often used for ornamental purposes, as it can add aesthetic value to gardens, parks, and indoor spaces. Its leaves and vines are frequently used in floral arrangements and wreaths, showcasing the plant's versatile and decorative qualities. Additionally, Canarian ivy is known for its air-purifying properties, making it a popular choice for indoor spaces with poor air quality.
However, it is important to note that Canarian ivy is toxic when ingested and can cause skin irritation, so it should be kept out of reach of children and pets. It is also considered invasive in some regions, albeit less so than other ivy subspecies.
Light Requirements
Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis thrives in bright but indirect natural light. It can also tolerate some shade, making it a suitable indoor plant. Too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves and cause them to turn yellow.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers moderate temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C). It can adapt to warmer temperatures, but sudden temperature fluctuations can damage the leaves. During winter, it is important to protect the plant from frost and freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a range of soil types, but it prefers a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. The soil acidity level should be acidic to slightly alkaline, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. Adding organic matter to the soil can enhance water retention and improve soil fertility for optimal growth.
Cultivation methods
The Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis (Willd.) Cout. is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of ways, including as a ground cover or as a climbing plant. It prefers to be grown in partial to full shade, in well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. This plant is also tolerant of acidic, alkaline, neutral, sandy, and loamy soils.
When planting, ensure that the soil is prepared by adding compost or other organic matter. The roots should be gently spread out, and the plant should be watered well after planting to encourage root growth.
Watering needs
The Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis (Willd.) Cout. requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure that the soil is well-draining. During the summer months, when the plant is actively growing, it may need to be watered more frequently than during the winter months when growth slows down.
One way to check if the plant needs to be watered is by touching the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Another method is using a moisture meter, which will give a more exact reading of when the soil has dried out.
Fertilization
The Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis (Willd.) Cout. benefits from regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth. It can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season, which typically runs from spring to fall. Be careful not to overfertilize, as this can lead to leaf burn or other issues.
Organic fertilizers, such as compost or worm castings, can also be applied to provide nutrients to the plant. This can be done once or twice a year, depending on the needs of the plant and the soil it's growing in.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of keeping the Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis (Willd.) Cout. healthy and looking its best. It can be pruned at any time of the year but is best done in late winter or early spring before the active growing season begins.
When pruning, focus on removing dead or damaged branches, as well as any growth that is overcrowding the plant. Cutting back the plant can also help promote fuller growth. It's important to use sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
If the plant is being grown as a ground cover, it can be mowed to keep it at a reasonable height. However, if it's being grown as a climbing plant, it may need to be trained to grow up a trellis or other support structure.
Propagation methods of Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis (Willd.) Cout.
Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis (Willd.) Cout. is commonly known as Canary Island ivy. The plant can be propagated through various methods which include seeds, cuttings, layering, and division.
Seeds
The plant produces small black berries containing several seeds. The seeds can be sown in seed trays with well-drained soil. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil, and the trays should be watered carefully to avoid drowning the seeds. Germination occurs within two to six weeks.
Cuttings
Cuttings are the most common propagation method for the Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis. They can be taken from the stem tips or the woody growth. The cutting should be at least six inches long and have a few leaves. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a bright, indirect light. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
Layering
Layering is another propagation method that can be used for Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis. To layer the plant, select a low growing stem or branch. Remove any leaves from the section of the stem that will be buried. Cover the stem with soil, securing it in place with a U-shaped wire or a stone. Water the soil, keeping it moist until the roots develop. Once the roots have developed, cut the stem below the soil and repot the new plant.
Division
Division is another propagation method that can be used for the Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis. The plant can grow into a large clump over time, which can be divided into smaller sections. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the sections, ensuring that each section has roots and leaves. Replant each section into well-drained soil and water them regularly.
Disease Management
Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis (Willd.) Cout. is relatively resistant to most plant diseases. However, a few diseases can affect the plant's growth and development. One of the common diseases is bacterial leaf spot.
Bacterial leaf spot is caused by the Xanthomonas campestris bacterium. The disease is characterized by the formation of small water-soaked spots on the leaves. The spots turn brown or black, and the infected leaves may fall off. The disease can be managed by pruning the infected leaves and destroying them. Additionally, copper-based fungicides can be sprayed on the plant to prevent the spread of the disease.
Anthracnose is another disease that can affect Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis. The disease is caused by the fungi Colletotrichum and Gloeosporium. It is characterized by the formation of brown or black spots on the leaves and stems. The infected parts of the plant may eventually die. To manage anthracnose, prune out the affected parts of the plant, and destroy them. Application of copper-based fungicides can also help in preventing the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Hedera helix L. ssp. canariensis is susceptible to infestation by various pests. The most common pests that affect the plant include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause discoloration, stunted growth, and defoliation of the plant. They suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow or brown. Spider mites can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap, neem oil or horticultural oil.
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony, and waxy insects found on the leaves and stems of plants. They suck sap from the plant, causing wilting, stunted growth and death of the plant. Mealybugs can be managed by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or soapy water. Additionally, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be sprayed on the plant to kill the pests.
Scale insects are sap-sucking insects that can cause discoloration and stunted growth of the plant. They look like small bumps on the leaves, stems, and branches of the plant. Scale insects can be managed by wiping them off with alcohol or insecticidal soap. Horticultural oil can also be sprayed on the plant to suffocate the pests.
