Ivy

Ivy is a woody, evergreen climber that grows up walls, fences and trees using tiny roots to cling to the substrate; in woods it can also carpet the ground. It has glossy, green leaves with three or five pointed lobes, which are often conspicuously veined.

It is a valuable plant for many species, especially insects filling up on nectar before hibernating. Ivy berries ripen in winter, when most other berries have already been eaten.

It grows in any soils and tolerates both deep shade and full sun. However, only shoots in the sun produce flowers. It is poisonous to humans.

Animals that benefit:

• Holly blue caterpillar feeds on the flowers buds in the Autumn.
• Wasps, hornets, hoverflies, bumblebees, red admirals, small tortoiseshells and peacock butterflies, and other late-flying insects, drink the nectar.
• Small mammals use the dense foliage for food and shelter during the harsh winter months.
• Many birds, such as blackbirds and thrushes, eat the berries.
• In the Spring, many birds, ie, sparrows, nest in Ivy.
• Through its foliage, flowers and berries, ivy provides an excellent habitat to species such peacock, painted lady, comma and brimstone butterflies, who use it during hibernation.

Contrary to popular opinion, large amounts of ivy growing on trees will not cause any harm as ivy is not parasitic.

If you know of an ancient tree or maybe a tree with an historical interest, please contact Virginia at BTCV on 01233 666519.