Japanese ivy (Hedera rhombea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Japanese ivy on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araliaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Japanese ivy
Hedera rhombea, commonly known as Japanese ivy, is an attractive evergreen climbing plant belonging to the Araliaceae family. It is characterized by its glossy, lobed or rhomboid leaves, which can vary in color from dark green to bronze hues in winter. It is ideal for covering walls, fences, or as a trailing plant in hanging baskets, adding a touch of natural elegance to any space.
Native range
Japan and Korea
Care tips
It prefers bright indirect light, although it tolerates some direct morning or late afternoon sun. Watering should be moderate, allowing the top layer of the substrate to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogging. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Japanese ivy
- Warning signs
- Pale or yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted or weak growth. Soft, blackened stems indicate rot.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Prune damaged stems. Repot if soil is compacted or waterlogged.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the main enemy, causing root rot. Also, lack of bright indirect light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. With good light, drainage, and moderate watering, it usually recovers. Watch out for spider mites.