Hedera helix Goldheart

Hedera helix Goldheart

Why Buy Me?

• Vigorous grower
• Interesting foliage

Growing Conditions

Light:
Thrives in partial to full shade but tolerates some sun, especially in cooler climates. In sunnier locations, afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch. Bright, indirect light helps maintain the golden central variegation in the leaves.

Soil:
Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Grows well in loam, sandy, or clay soils and tolerates a wide range of pH levels from slightly acidic to alkaline. Avoid waterlogged or overly compacted soil.

Exposure:
Excellent for both exposed and sheltered positions. Can climb using aerial roots on walls, fences, trees, or trellises, or spread as evergreen groundcover. Ideal for north- or east-facing sites and shaded areas where other plants struggle.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Once established, it can tolerate dry periods but will perform best with occasional watering during hot, dry spells.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in spring or early autumn. Autumn planting in mild areas allows roots to develop before winter; spring planting is ideal for colder regions.

Spacing:
Space 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) apart for groundcover. As a climber, it can reach 3–5 metres (10–16 feet) or more depending on support and conditions.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during the first growing season. After establishment, water only during prolonged dry spells. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring, especially for potted plants or those in poor soil.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds if grown as groundcover. Prune in late winter or early spring to control growth, remove dead or reverted green foliage, and shape the plant. Prune throughout the year as needed.

Propagation:
Propagate easily by softwood or semi-ripe cuttings, or by layering. Will root readily where stems contact soil or a moist surface.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Fresh new growth emerges with strong gold-centred leaves edged in deep green. The colour contrast becomes more defined as the leaves mature.

Summer:
Forms dense evergreen foliage with heart-shaped leaves featuring a rich golden centre. Adds year-round brightness to shady walls and garden beds.

Autumn:
Colour remains vibrant. May produce small, greenish flowers on mature plants, typically unnoticed among the foliage.

Winter:
Evergreen. Foliage persists through winter, providing valuable structure and colour. Older plants may develop small black berries, which attract birds.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Provides year-round shelter and nesting sites for birds and overwintering insects. Flowers (on mature plants) offer late-season nectar for pollinators, and berries feed birds in winter.

Garden Use:
An excellent choice for climbing walls, fences, sheds, and trellises. Perfect for evergreen groundcover under trees or in deep shade. Works well in containers, hanging baskets, or window boxes where it can trail attractively. Also suitable for topiary frames and trained forms in formal gardens.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with ferns, hellebores, hostas, heucheras, and other shade-loving perennials. Its gold-centred leaves create a vivid contrast with silver, purple, or blue-green foliage.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Hedera helix Goldheart. 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.