Hedera 
Flora Frost Hedera helix 'Glacier'
| Fruit type | Berry |
| Flower scent | Unscented |
| Leaf type | Foliage leaf |
| Winter hardness | Good (USDA-zone 5, 6) |
| Inflorescence | Umbel(-like) |
| Structure (tissues) | Woody |
| Leaf duration | Evergreen |
| soil pH requirement | Neutral (pH 6,5 - 7,5); Alkaline (pH > 7,5) |
| Light conditions | Semi-shades; Shady |
| Leaf division | Simple |
| Leaf, main color | Dark green |
| Leaf colour, pattern | Marginate |
| Leaf, secondary color(s) | White; Green grey |
| Toxicity (if consumed) | Fairly |
Hedera helix, commonly known as common ivy or bindwood, is a versatile and popular evergreen plant that is widely cultivated for its attractive foliage and ability to climb walls and structures. One popular cultivar of this species is Hedera helix 'Glacier.'
The 'Glacier' variety of ivy is known for its distinct characteristics and unique features. Its fruit is in the form of small berries, which adds visual interest to the plant. While the flowers of this ivy are unscented, its foliage leaves an impression with their attractive appearance. The foliage consists of simple, dark green leaves with a marginate pattern, meaning the leaf edges are adorned with a secondary color, typically white or green-grey.
Ivy 'Glacier' belongs to the woody group of ivy, with its tissues forming a sturdy structure. This attribute contributes to its ability to climb and cling to surfaces with the help of aerial roots. This makes it an excellent choice for covering walls, fences, and arbors, adding a touch of natural beauty to any landscape.
In terms of growth and maintenance, this ivy cultivar is easy to care for. It has a medium growth rate, reaching a height of 8 to 20 feet and spreading between 3 to 6 feet. Its evergreen nature ensures a year-round presence in the garden, providing a constant backdrop of lush, green leaves.
Hedera helix 'Glacier' is known for its adaptability to various light conditions. It thrives in semi-shaded to shady areas, making it an ideal choice for gardens with limited sunlight. It also has good winter hardiness, able to withstand cooler temperatures commonly found in USDA hardiness zones 5 and 6.
Another advantage of 'Glacier' ivy is its ability to tolerate different soil pH levels. It can grow well in neutral soil with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. Additionally, it can tolerate alkaline soil with a pH above 7.5. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of garden environments.
It is essential to note that common ivy, including the 'Glacier' cultivar, can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Therefore, it is important to keep children and pets away from the plant and prevent any ingestion.
Overall, Hedera helix 'Glacier' is a reliable and attractive plant choice for those looking to add a touch of greenery to their gardens, fences, or walls. Its unique features, including the beautiful marginate leaves and ability to withstand different light and soil conditions, make it a versatile and popular choice among garden enthusiasts. Its evergreen foliage and moderate growth rate ensure a constant presence and manageable maintenance. With its aesthetic appeal and adaptability, 'Glacier' ivy is a fantastic addition to any garden landscape.
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