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Kenilworth ivy
Also known as: Ivy-leaved toadflax, Wandering sailor, Pennywort, Mother of millions, Aaron's beard, Devil's rib
The kenilworth ivy is a perennial and small flowering plant that grows on rocks and walls. The little scallops with tiny lilac-blue flowers bloom all summer long. The center of the flowers is yellow to direct or guide the honey bees where the nectar and pollen are. The flowers can be used as a temporary yellow dye.
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Herb
Plant Type
Spring, Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Fall
Harvest Time
5 cm
Plant Height
30 cm to 45 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2.5 cm
Flower Size
White, Purple, Blue, Violet
Flower Color
Green, Purple
Stem Color
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature

Images of Kenilworth ivy

Distribution of Kenilworth ivy

Distribution Map
Kenilworth ivy, native to the Mediterranean region, has spread far beyond its original range. It is now extensively found across continents such as Europe, North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. The plant adapts well to urban environments and is commonly cultivated, leading to its establishment in many temperate areas globally.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Walls and other well-drained sites, shady rocks and woods
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Kenilworth ivy is a flowering, shade-loving plant grown for its beauty, tolerance for low-light conditions, and fast but controllable growth. It is most commonly used as a ground cover in shady, low-traffic areas such as under trees. It can also be grown to drape over rocks in a rock garden, and looks great in a hanging planter.
Symbolism
Protection, Hex breaking
Interesting Facts
Kenilworth ivy grows readily not only in open soil, but also rocky crags, on the bark of trees, and many other unusual surfaces. Flower stalks initially seek out sunlight. Once they are fertilized, though, they become negatively phototropic and move away from light. This often puts them in a crag from which the new plant will grow.
Name Story
Kenilworth ivy: Kenilworth ivy's genus name, Cymbalaria, is based on the same Latin word as musical cymbals. Some variants have round leaves that evoke a cymbal shape. Muralis, the specific name, means "wall," likely because kenilworth ivy will happily grow from cracks in building walls.
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Toxicity

Kenilworth ivy poses a mild toxicity risk to cats and dogs. All parts of kenilworth ivy are toxic and must be consumed in large quantities to cause poisoning. Symptoms include gastrointestinal upset and general discomfort. Pets exhibiting unusual behavior should receive prompt veterinary care to ensure their safety. Monitoring and seeking attention are critical for owners. Both cats and dogs are at risk from ingestion of any plant part.
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Weed Control

Kenilworth ivy originates from Southern Europe. It's often labeled as a weed due to its fast-spreading, hardy nature. This plant has the ability to self-seed, spread quickly, and establish itself even in unfavorable conditions, all of which are common characteristics of weeds. Another factor is its potential harm to gardens. Kenilworth ivy can grow wildly and out-compete other plants for resources, potentially destabilizing the balance of the garden. If intentionally grown, gardeners should be on the lookout for uncontrolled expansion and loss of control over its growth patterns. The main means by which kenilworth ivy spreads is through its self-seedling ability. It drops seeds that readily germinate, enabling it to populate new areas swiftly.
How to Control It
For kenilworth ivy, it’s best to manage its growth in late winter or early spring before it sets seeds as this is when it can spread aggressively.
  1. Hand pulling: Gently remove kenilworth ivy, ensuring to get the entire root to prevent regrowth.
  2. Mulching: Place a thick layer of organic material like wood chips around desired plants to limit kenilworth ivy sprouting.
  3. Dense planting: Grow other plants closely to outcompete kenilworth ivy for space and resources.
  4. Barrier edging: Install physical boundaries beneath the soil surface to prevent kenilworth ivy from spreading into unwanted areas.
  5. Timed mowing: Regularly cut the area where kenilworth ivy grows to prevent it from flowering and setting seeds.
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Quickly Identify Kenilworth ivy

1
Rounded leaves up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide with lobes fanning outward, resembling small cymbals.
2
Striking blue-violet flowers with yellow throats, 0.4-0.6 inches (1-1.5 cm) across, resembling snapdragons.
3
Fruit capsules exhibit unique phototropic behavior, growing away from sunlight and splitting open upon ripening.
4
Smooth, slender stems less than 0.1 inches (2.5 mm) thick, reddish-brown, with trailing and climbing capabilities.
5
Green, palmately veined and lobed leaves, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in length, radiating from a central point.
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Care Guide for Kenilworth ivy

Twice per week
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Kenilworth ivy thrives in moist environments, requiring regular hydration—twice a week for optimal growth. As an evergreen, it absorbs moisture from humid air, reducing soil watering during rainy seasons. Its native habitat includes damp walls and shady areas.
Fertilize: Fertilize kenilworth ivy with high nitrogen every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer, using a diluted water-soluble fertilizer. Decrease feeding in fall and stop in winter to promote healthy foliage without hindering flower growth. Water soil prior to application to prevent root shock.
Pruning: Kenilworth ivy thrives with early to late spring pruning, promoting bushier growth and enhancing air circulation. Trim tips and remove dead stems to encourage flowering and maintain appearance. Use sharp, clean tools to minimize shock while ensuring health and aesthetic appeal.
Propagation: Kenilworth ivy is a versatile perennial that thrives in both shaded and sunny spots. Propagate by sowing fresh seeds in well-draining soil while maintaining consistent moisture. This promotes self-seeding and establishes its sprawling habit, resulting in lush green foliage and delicate flowers.
Repotting: Repot kenilworth ivy every 2-3 years in spring for optimal growth. Use a shallow, wide pot with good drainage to support its trailing habit. After repotting, maintain consistently moist soil and provide bright, indirect light for recovery and healthy spread.
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