Ivy - English Ivy
Common Names: Ivy, Hedra, English Ivy, Algerian Ivy
Botanical names: Hedera, (HED-er-ah)
Availability: Year round
Vase life: 7 days or longer
Storage temperatures: 33 - 35 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: No
Description: Solid or variegated lobed leaves, spaced on long vining, flexible stems.
Color: Green, variegated white and green
Botanical facts: Hedera is the Latin name for Ivy.
Design notes: A wonderful long-lasting trailing foliage, useful in hanging or curving-line floral design. Trailing foliage can be used in cascade bridal bouquets and to create an armature in vase designs. Individual leaves are used in corsage design.
Purchasing hints: Purchase trailers that are long and flexible. Leaves should be shiny, fresh and turgid with water. Note: Because of the plant's invasive nature the purchase and use of ivy in floral design is prohibited in many areas including the state of Oregon.
Conditioning: Cut with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage. After hydration dip the foliage in a Crowning Glory solution and allow it to dry. Most ivy foliage can be stored out of water in refrigeration in plastic garbage bags.
Additional notes: In ancient Greece, the plant was called “cissos” after the nymph who danced herself to death for Dionysus, the god of wine. Moved by her performance, he turned her body into the ivy, which joyfully entwines and embraces everything near it.
Video Demonstration: