The common ivy is known in Maltese as ‘liedna’. This species of ivy is native to most of Europe and Western Asia.
In Malta, it is found growing naturally in many different sites, such as the Buskett woodlands.
This species is a climbing or ground creeping woody plant which can grow horizontally, or vertically on suitable surfaces as are living trees, rocky outcrops, or masonry structures.
It is able to climb to a height of up to 25 metres. It attaches itself to a surface by means of short aerial roots which cling to the substrate.
The yellowish-green flowers of the common ivy are rich in nectar and an important food source for bees and other insects. The shiny dark green leaves are evergreen.
On creeping and climbing stems they are either heart-shaped or have five lobes. The small fruit is a hardened berry which turns to a bluish-black colour in winter when it ripens.
Hedera helix is the scientific name of this plant. The word “helix” is derived from Ancient Greek and means to twist and turn. This plant has actually been used by man since ancient times. The Romans, for example, used the ivy as part of their celebrations to the god Bacchus, where worshippers were thought to have worn ivy crowns. Also, in the past, leaf and berry extracts were taken orally to treat coughs and bronchitis.
The common ivy is an amazing plant which we should appreciate. Care should be taken such that the cultivated ivy in our gardens does not escape, as this could have negative impacts on the native ivy.
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