Flower Library
Ivy
Hedera helix · Araliengewächse (Araliaceae)
Ivy is perhaps the toughest and most rewarding cut foliage we stock. Its leathery, evergreen leaves and trailing shoots give bouquets, wreaths and table settings instant depth and movement. Because we source the shoots fresh from the Veiling Rhein-Maas, they often last well beyond the usual seven days, and strong runners will even root in the vase water.
- Season
- Year-round
- Vase life
- 10–21 days
- Latin name
- Hedera helix
- Colors
- Dark green, Mid green, Variegated (white-green), Yellow-green
Floristry uses ivy in two forms: short, evenly leafed shoots with the classic three- to five-lobed juvenile leaves, and long, pliable runners ideal for twisting into wreaths, wrapping around vases or hanging from arrangements. There are also the round-leaved adult forms and the dense berry umbels of flowering ivy, which are sought after as rustic material in autumn and winter.
As filler greenery ivy is enormously versatile. We tuck single leaves into bridal bouquets as fine detail, run long trails along tables as a natural runner, and use short pieces to fill gaps in lavish arrangements. Because ivy barely wilts and does not flag quickly, it suits occasions where the decoration must stay fresh for hours, such as weddings or funerals.
Quality shows in firm, glossy leaves without brown edges and in shoots that have not been forced too long and lanky. At the Veiling we look for plump, deep-green foliage with vigorous growth. Variegated varieties should be clearly marked, as faded, almost white shoots tire faster than the dark-green ones.
Stylistically ivy fits almost anywhere: in natural, wild bouquets it creates an enchanted look, while in classic, elegant arrangements it forms a calm green frame. It pairs beautifully with roses, hydrangeas or eucalyptus, and in Advent we love weaving long runners with fir greenery and berries into door wreaths and garlands.
Care
- 01Cut stems fresh at an angle before arranging and strip the lower leaves so none sit rotting in the water.
- 02Use a clean vase and fresh, cool water; flower food is not essential but extends freshness.
- 03Keep cool and out of direct sun so the leaves stay crisp and glossy for a long time.
- 04Change the water every few days; ivy tolerates this easily and often even roots in the vase.
- 05Wear gloves when cutting, as the sap can irritate sensitive skin or trigger allergic reactions.
- 06Bathe long runners briefly in lukewarm water before working with them, which makes them suppler and easier to bend.
Frequently asked
- How long does cut ivy last in the vase?
- Ivy is among the longest-lasting cut greens of all. Fresh, strong shoots easily keep ten to twenty days in clean water, often longer. Vigorous runners form fine roots in the water and can even be potted up afterwards.
- Is ivy toxic to cats, dogs and children?
- Yes. All parts of the plant contain saponins and are toxic to pets and children, with the foliage generally considered more toxic than the berries. Even skin contact with the sap can irritate. Keep ivy out of reach of animals and small children.
- When is ivy in season?
- Ivy is evergreen and available as cut foliage all year round. It is especially popular in Advent for wreaths and garlands and in spring and summer for weddings, because it keeps arrangements fresh for a long time.
- What does ivy symbolise?
- Ivy is an ancient symbol of faithfulness, constancy and eternal life. Because it clings tightly and stays evergreen, it is loved in wedding bouquets as a sign of lasting union and in funeral work as a symbol of eternal life.