Ivy

Ivy is an evergreen, woody climbing plant which can grow to a height of thirty metres. It's climbing stems have specialised hairs which enable it to cling to surfaces as it climbs. The mature form of ivy can be self supporting.

There is a popular belief that ivy strangles trees, but this is a misconception, ivy causes no harm to trees whatsoever, and in fact, it supports at least fifty species of wildlife. There are two sub species of ivy in Britain, Hedera helix ssp. helix, which climbs, and Hedera helix ssp. hibernica, which is ground spreading.

Only mature plants produce flowers, and these are a yellowish green, which grow in dome shaped clusters. It also produces fruits, which are like black berries, growing in clusters. The nectar, pollen and berries, provide an important food source for insects and birds during autumn and winter. The berries have a high fat content, which ids nutritious for birds, and ivy provides shelter for insects, birds, bats and other small mammals.

Wearing a wreath of ivy leaves around the head, was reputed to prevent people from getting drunk. Bacchus, the Roman god of intoxication, is often depicted wearing a wreath of ivy and grapevines. Ivy was also a symbol of fidelity, and it was customary to present newly wed couples with a wreath of ivy, today ivy is still included in bridal bouquets. In ancient Rome, ivy symbolised intellectual achievement.