Tree ivy × Fatshedera lizei
ABOUT
The tree ivy, commonly known as × Fatshedera lizei, is a unique hybrid plant that blends characteristics from its parent species. It sports a striking appearance with broad, glossy, dark green leaves that are shaped like a heart or a shield. These leaves typically grow in a spiral pattern, creating a lush and full look. The foliage can exhibit a leathery texture and may have a slightly puckered surface, adding to the tactile appeal of the plant. Tree ivy doesn't produce flowers frequently, but when it does, they are small and inconspicuous, not contributing much to its overall ornamental value. The stems of the plant are sturdy and can either climb with support or form a mounding shape if allowed to grow freely. Its versatile appearance enables it to be used in a variety of settings for decorative purposes, whether indoors as a potted plant or outdoors as part of a garden landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Araliaceae.
Synonyms
Tree Ivy, Aralia Ivy, Fatshedera, Botanical Wonder.
Common names
× Fatshedera lizei
ToxicityTo humans
Botanical aralia ivy (× Fatshedera lizei) is not known to be highly toxic to humans, but it can cause minor irritations. If any part of the plant is ingested, it could result in gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It's always wise to keep houseplants out of reach of children who might accidentally ingest plant material.
To pets
The aralia ivy is considered to have a low level of toxicity to pets. If ingested by animals such as cats or dogs, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, which could include symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. While the plant is not considered highly poisonous to pets, it is still recommended to prevent them from chewing on or ingesting it to avoid any potential discomfort or adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
5 feet (1.5 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Western Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Tree ivy requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for those new to gardening or with limited time.
- Ornamental Appeal: Its unique foliage and structure provide an attractive addition to garden designs and indoor spaces.
- Versatility: It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, in pots or as ground cover, adapting to various growing conditions.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Shade Tolerant: It can survive in low light conditions where many other plants might not thrive, making it suitable for shaded gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- × Fatshedera lizei, also known as Tree Ivy, can be used as a living curtain or room divider by training the vines over a support structure, creating a green partition within a space.
- Tree Ivy can serve as a backdrop for aquariums, where its foliage can add a natural green touch to the aquatic display without being submerged.
- The plant's flexible stems allow for use in floral arrangements and wreaths, adding unique foliage texture and foliage contrast.
- Landscape designers may use Tree Ivy for topiary art, taking advantage of its ability to be pruned into various shapes and forms.
- This plant can be utilized in container gardens, especially in outdoor spaces like patios or balconies, to create lush, vertical greenery without taking up much horizontal space.
- Tree Ivy can be incorporated into living walls or vertical gardens both indoors and outdoors, contributing to vertical greening of urban spaces.
- The leaves of the Tree Ivy can be used in crafts or as natural decorations during the fall, thanks to their deep green color and intriguing texture.
- Due to its trailing nature, Tree Ivy can be placed in hanging baskets, adding an elegant touch of green to both indoor and outdoor settings.
- Tree Ivy can be used as a ground cover in shaded garden areas where other plants may struggle to thrive due to low light conditions.
- Designers can use Tree Ivy to create a natural tapestry effect on unsightly walls or fences, camouflaging them with living foliage.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tree ivy is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tree ivy is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: × Fatshedera lizei, commonly known as the 'tree ivy' or 'bush ivy', is a hybrid plant that combines qualities of its parent species. Its ability to thrive in various conditions symbolizes adaptability to different environments.
- Integration: As a hybrid, the bush ivy represents the successful integration of different characteristics, mirroring how diverse elements can come together to form a cohesive whole.
- Innovation: The creation of × Fatshedera lizei through the combination of the fatshedera and ivy plants suggests a symbolic meaning of innovation and the development of new ideas.
WaterThe Tree Ivy prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water the plant thoroughly until water runs freely from the drainage holes, typically using about half a gallon of water for a medium-sized pot every week to ten days. During the growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently, while in fall and winter, water less often. Avoid letting the plant sit in water as this can lead to root rot. It is vital to provide consistent moisture but not overwater.
LightTree Ivy flourishes in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to place the plant in a spot where it will receive dappled light or away from harsh afternoon sun. A north-facing or east-facing window is often ideal for providing the light conditions that Tree Ivy prefers.
TemperatureTree Ivy performs best in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not frost-hardy and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure healthy growth, keep the Tree Ivy away from drafts and drastic temperature changes.
PruningTree Ivy requires periodic pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. The best time to prune is in the spring before new growth begins. Prune sparingly, removing only dead or overgrown stems, and do so no more than once or twice a year to prevent stressing the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTree Ivy prefers well-draining soil with a peaty, loamy, or sandy composition and a pH range of 5.5 to 7. The best mix could include equal parts of peat, pine bark, and perlite or coarse sand.
RepottingTree Ivy should be repotted every 2-3 years to ensure it has sufficient room for root growth and to replenish nutrient-rich soil.
Humidity & MistingTree Ivy thrives in moderate humidity levels between 40% to 50%. It can tolerate lower humidity but benefits from occasional misting or a pebble tray.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Tree Ivy in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Grow Tree Ivy in shade to partial sun and protect from harsh elements.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleThe Tree Ivy (× Fatshedera lizei) begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in moist, well-drained soil, ideally in partial shade. This is followed by the growth of juvenile foliage on a small shrub as the plant matures. Once established, it proceeds to develop leathery, dark green leaves on stems that can either climb like ivy or form a bushy, upright shape. The Tree Ivy reaches its reproductive stage and produces small white flowers during the autumn, although flowering is not common in this hybrid plant. After flowering, if pollination occurs, the plant may produce small, black, inedible berries. The plant continues to grow and can be propagated through cuttings, thereby continuing its cycle without the need for seed production.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Tree Ivy, or × Fatshedera lizei, can be propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings generally taken during the late summer to early fall. The most popular method for propagating this plant is by taking cuttings from new growth that has not yet fully matured but has partially hardened. Cut a 4 to 6 inch (about 10 to 15 centimeters) section of the stem, ensuring there are at least two sets of leaves. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept in indirect light and maintained at a consistent temperature and humidity to stimulate root development. It usually takes a few weeks for the cutting to root, after which it can be transferred to a larger pot or directly into the garden, depending on the climate.
