Hedera helix Goldchild

Hedera helix Goldchild

Why Buy Me?

• Vigorous grower
• Interesting foliage

Growing Conditions

Light:
Prefers partial shade to full shade, but also tolerates full sun in cooler climates. In warmer or sunnier areas, afternoon shade is recommended to prevent scorching of the gold-edged foliage. Performs best with some bright, indirect light to maintain vibrant variegation.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained soil is ideal. Adapts well to a variety of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay. Tolerant of a wide pH range from slightly acidic to alkaline.

Exposure:
Suitable for sheltered or exposed sites. Can climb walls, fences, and trellises using aerial roots, or trail as groundcover or in containers. Makes an excellent choice for north- or east-facing positions, including deep shade.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate once established. Requires regular watering during dry spells, especially in containers or when grown as groundcover. Prolonged drought may cause browning of leaf margins.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or early autumn. Spring planting allows roots to establish before summer, while autumn planting is best in mild climates.

Spacing:
For groundcover, space 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) apart. As a climber, it can reach 2–4 metres (6–13 feet) or more depending on support and pruning.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly until established, then only during prolonged dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to encourage healthy growth, especially in pots.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds if grown as groundcover. Prune in late winter or early spring to control spread, shape the plant, or remove any reverted green foliage. Can be trimmed throughout the year as needed.

Propagation:
Propagate easily by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or by layering. Will root where stems touch the soil.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New growth appears with bright gold margins and green centres. Young leaves are soft and flexible.

Summer:
Bold, variegated evergreen foliage remains vibrant, forming dense coverage over supports or soil.

Autumn:
Foliage colour intensifies, providing reliable ornamental interest. May produce small, inconspicuous greenish flowers on mature plants.

Winter:
Evergreen. Foliage persists year-round. Mature plants may develop black berries, which are attractive to birds. Leaves may darken slightly in very cold conditions but generally retain their gold margins.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Excellent for wildlife. Dense growth provides nesting shelter for birds, while flowers and berries (on mature plants) offer food for pollinators and birds. Also shelters overwintering insects.

Garden Use:
Perfect for covering walls, fences, and unsightly structures in shade or semi-shade. Ideal as groundcover under trees or in tricky dry shady spots. Suitable for large containers, hanging baskets, or window boxes where it can trail decoratively. Also used as indoor foliage in cooler rooms or conservatories.

Companion Plants:
Combines well with ferns, hellebores, hostas, heucheras, and other shade-loving foliage plants. Its golden margins brighten dark planting areas and contrast beautifully with deep greens, purples, and silver-leaved companions.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Hedera helix Goldchild. It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.