Ivy is one of those plants that makes its home where it wants to and grows along the ground or up trees and structures.
Its tendrils sprout roots every so often that take old in wood or brick and help anchor the plant to its position, so it can continue its journey upwards or outwards.
It can transform a building into looking idyllic with a green covering over the bricks or add a green foliage to the trunk of a tree and make it look green throughout the seasons. Underneath though the Ivy is slowly sucking moisture out of the wood and bricks making it dry, soft and brittle.
Several varieties of Ivy have been classed as an invasive species due to their spread and damage.
In the right places Ivy can look good, but in the wrong places it can cause untold damage.
Ivy belongs to the genus Hedera and there are many species across the world.
Ivy has some good uses such as a cordage when the vines are soft and supple. It can also be used to weave baskets.
Certain Ivy’s have been shown to have medicinal properties and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Ivy is also associated with Christmas and is often a component of wreaths and other festive decorations.
In some countries though certain species of Ivy is poisonous and should only be handled in the correct method and wearing protective equipment.
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