When it comes to selecting the best ivy for growing indoors, English ivy is undeniably the most popular choice. However, there are other ivy species that can also thrive as houseplants and bring a touch of greenery to your indoor space. While the care for these ivy varieties is similar to that of English ivy, let’s explore some of the other options available to you.
1. Algerian Ivy (Hedera canariensis): This ivy species has large, glossy, dark green leaves that add a touch of elegance to any room. It is known for its vigorous growth and can quickly cover walls or trellises. Algerian ivy prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate lower light conditions. It is important to ensure well-draining soil and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
2. Persian Ivy (Hedera colchica): Persian ivy is another great choice for indoor cultivation. It features large, heart-shaped leaves with a glossy texture. This ivy variety is known for its ability to tolerate lower light conditions, making it a suitable option for spaces with less natural light. Persian ivy requires moderate watering, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
3. Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus): Despite its name, Swedish ivy is not a true ivy but a member of the mint family. This trailing plant has small, round leaves with a vibrant green color. It is an excellent choice for hanging baskets or trailing down shelves. Swedish ivy prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. It requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist, but not saturated.
4. Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum): Also known as pothos or golden pothos, Devil’s ivy is a popular ivy variety for indoor cultivation due to its low maintenance requirements and attractive heart-shaped leaves with variegated patterns. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. Devil’s ivy is forgiving when it comes to watering, but it’s best to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering thoroughly.
5. Japanese Ivy (Hedera rhombea): Japanese ivy is a less commonly grown ivy species, but it can still make a beautiful addition to your indoor garden. It has smaller, leathery leaves that are dark green in color. Japanese ivy prefers bright, indirect light and requires well-draining soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering thoroughly.
It’s important to note that while these ivy varieties can thrive indoors, they may still require some extra care and attention compared to outdoor ivy plants. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests, such as spider mites or mealybugs, and promptly address any issues that arise. Additionally, providing adequate humidity, either through misting or placing a tray of water near your plants, can help ensure their success.
In my personal experience, I have found English ivy and Devil’s ivy to be particularly resilient and easy to care for indoors. They have thrived in various light conditions and have added a touch of greenery to my home. However, each ivy variety has its own unique charm, so feel free to explore and experiment with different types to find the one that best suits your indoor space and personal preferences.
