Hedera canariensis ‘Gloire de Marengo’

Hedera canariensis ‘Gloire de Marengo’, often known as Canary Island Ivy or Algerian Ivy, is an outstanding evergreen climber renowned for its vibrant foliage. Its large, three-lobed leaves, typically 9-13cm long, are a striking mix of deep green and silvery-grey, boldly bordered with creamy-white, often with reddish petioles and stems. The young leaves can even appear slightly white. This vigorous plant holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit and provides year-round interest, making it a reliable choice for many garden situations, though we always advise careful placement due to its robust growth.

For optimal growth, we recommend planting ‘Gloire de Marengo’ in any reasonably well-drained, fertile soil; it is quite adaptable and even tolerates dry or chalky conditions once established. While it will grow in full sun to deep shade, the variegation is most pronounced in partial shade to avoid scorching in intense sun or reverting to green in very deep shade. It’s hardy down to -15°C (USDA Zone 7) but appreciates a sheltered spot away from cold, drying winds. Water thoroughly after planting, and once established, it’s quite drought-tolerant, though regular watering in hot, dry spells will keep it looking its best.

This ivy is a fantastic choice for covering unsightly walls, fences, or as a dense groundcover to suppress weeds and stabilise banks. In autumn, mature plants may produce small, insignificant greenish flowers, followed by decorative black berries which offer a valuable food source for birds in winter (though be aware these are toxic to humans and pets). To keep ‘Gloire de Marengo’ in check and maintain its shape, we advise regular pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing any dead or damaged stems. It can also be grown in containers, bringing its brilliant colour to patios or even indoors.