Hedera helix ‘Pittsburgh’

common ivy, English ivy

Hedera helix ‘Pittsburgh’ is a standout cultivar of English ivy, prized for its robust growth and striking, slightly variegated foliage. Its lush leaves, featuring deep green, silver, and creamy white tones, create an eye-catching contrast.

Whether cascading gracefully from hanging baskets or adorning walls and trellises, ‘Pittsburgh’ adds texture and colour to any space. Explore this versatile plant to enhance your garden, landscape, or interior décor with its vibrant beauty and adaptability.

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Origin: Europe and western Asia
Genus: Hedera
Species / Cultivar: helix var. 'Pittsburgh'
Common Name: common ivy, English ivy

Plant Biography

Hedera helix is a widely spread plant throughout Europe and western Asian woodlands and it has it has an intricate history with most European cultures. It is said to symbolise fidelity and eternal life. Ancient Greeks used it as a symbol of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility, often depicted wearing a wreath of ivy. As a symbol of fidelity, priests were presenting the newly married couples with a wreath of ivy and this custom still persists in some places.

Countless cultivars now exist in horticulture, ‘Pittsburgh’ is known for its attractive, mid-green leaves and compact growth habit.

Hedera helix 'Pittsburgh'
Soil: Moist but Well Drained
Soil that allows water to drain at a moderate rate, without the water pooling.
Growth Rate: Fast
Expect to see prolific growth, especially during growing season.
Water Requirement: Medium
Once it is established, this plant is likely to only require watering during drier periods.
Maintenance: A little
Easy to look after but may occasionally require some attention in order to thrive.
Situation: Full Sun to Full Shade
Tolerates the complete range of light levels, a very accommodating plant!
Eventual Height: 1-1.5m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 1-1.5m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Fully Hardy
Will survive unprotected outdoors in most areas of the UK, even in the harshest winters.
Habit: Evergreen
Always in leaf throughout the year. It won't lose all its leaves at any one time.
Lifecycle: Perennial
This plant is persistant and does not die off after flowering. It will return each season indefinitely, if provided with suitable growing conditions.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

When cultivating Hedera helix ‘Pittsburgh’ outdoors, provide well-draining soil and partial to full shade, especially in warmer climates. This ivy can grow to up to 1.5 metres in both height and spread, so ensure ample space for its growth. Regular watering is essential, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Prune as needed to maintain desired size and shape. With proper care, Hedera ‘Pittsburgh’ thrives as a versatile ground cover, climbing vine, or container plant, adding lush greenery and visual interest to gardens and landscapes. Can also be kept as an indoor plant if given sufficient light, but it dislikes central heating.

Expert Tip

Some people are mildly allergic to the oils in Hedera helix, so wear a mask and gloves when trimming.

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