| Presidio Park Plant Survey |
|
Encyclopedia | Parish Rye - 2018 Survey | A Historical Reference | Historic Surveys |
Hedera helix EUROPEAN IVY
This European and western Asian native is prolific around the world today and considered by some invasive. It can be found endemic to Ireland, parts of Scandinavia, central Europe, Ukraine, Turkey, and Iran. Hedera helix has traditionally been used as ground cover for erosion control purposes in the United States but can also climb trees and buildings to heights of 100 or more feet. It fruits in winter, spring, or fall with blue to black berries popular with birds, but toxic to humans. Hedera helix's leaves and berries were, in the past, eaten to expel mucus from the lungs and nasal passages. In 1597, British herbalist John Gerard recommended a wash of leaves and berries to be appropriate for sore or watery eyes. Hedera helix may have been introduced by European colonists of America in 1727. |
 |
2476 San Diego Avenue · San Diego CA 92110 · Phone (619) 297-9327
|