Plants/Moderate
English Ivy
Hedera helix
English ivy is a graceful indoor trailer with small, lobed leaves in solid or variegated green.
It prefers cooler rooms than most houseplants and is prone to spider mites in warm, dry air, so a bright bathroom or kitchen is often the best home.
Common problems
Fine webbing under leaves
Spider mites. Shower the plant, wipe leaves, and treat with insecticidal soap weekly.
Full guide: Spider Mites →Yellow, dropping leaves
Usually overwatering. Let the top of the soil dry and check drainage.
Full guide: Yellow Leaves →Loss of variegation
Not enough light. Move to a brighter indirect spot.
Questions, answered
Does English ivy need sun?+
Bright indirect light is best. Direct midday sun scorches its leaves.
Why does my ivy keep getting spider mites?+
Warm, dry air. Boost humidity and rinse leaves regularly to prevent infestations.
Is English ivy safe for pets?+
No — it is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed.