Hedera hibernica is the more prevalent of the two species of Hedera naturalised in Victoria, but the name H. helix has been widely misapplied to this species.
Photos from SGLN’s 2017 weed guide
About Ivy – English
Hedera helix is a widely planted ornamental creeper with green sword shaped leaves. Trailing stems form dense smothering mats. Greenish-yellow flowers in autumn are followed by black fruit. Seed is dispersed by birds, foxes, and possibly water. Stem fragments disposed of in garden refuse will also grow. Ivy invades seasonally moist, shaded or sunny positions in wet forest, dry forest and coastal areas.
Manual control
Small plants can easily be hand pulled when the soil is soft. It is best to try and remove the young plants before they begin to flower.
From SGLN’s 2017 weed guide.
Herbicides must be applied at the appropriate rate as specified on the label and all safety precautions followed. If chemical control is necessary near drainage lines or streams, use extreme caution as the effects on aquatic life can be devastating even in minute amounts. Always seek expert advice.
Chemical control notes from SGLN’s 2017 weed guide
Cut & paint may be more practical for larger plants. Cut close to the ground. Be sure to paint the cut as quickly as possible to ensure the plant absorbs the herbicide. Scrape and paint can work also. Foliar spray with Garlon plus Round Up plus Pulse penetrant. Refer to Garlon label for rates. Support plants may be killed as well. Always check the herbicide label before use.
These notes are from 2017, and some information, particularly herbicide information, may be out of date. Please ask local suppliers and do your own research in selecting herbicides if choosing chemical control.
Family, origin, type, plant instead, control methods and the note above are from SGLN’s pocket guide Common weeds of South Gippsland (2026).
