Hedera maderensis K.Koch ex A.Rutherf.

Scientific Classification

Hedera maderensis, commonly called Madeiran ivy, is a species of ivy in the genus Hedera and the botanical family Araliaceae.

Distribution

This species is endemic to Madeira island, native to the island’s Atlantic coast, where it is quite common.

Habitat

It grows on rocky slopes, soil, and tree trunks, especially in Barbusano laurel forest.

Taxonomic History

Formerly, a population from the western Iberian Peninsula was classified as the subspecies Hedera maderensis iberica, but this taxon has since been reclassified as a separate distinct species.

Growth Form

Hedera maderensis is an evergreen perennial climbing shrub, that grows as ground cover when no vertical surfaces are available, and reaches 20–30 meters high when growing on suitable vertical surfaces such as trees, cliffs, and walls.

Climbing Adaptation

It climbs using aerial rootlets that cling to its growing substrate.

Stem Characteristics

Stems are green or greenish-brown, sometimes tinged with red or purple.

Leaf Characteristics

It produces broad, slightly leathery leaves that measure 2 to 8.5 inches, with 1 to 5 small lobes that are regular in size and shape.

Reproductive Features

Its small greenish-yellow flowers are borne in large umbels, and it produces globular fruits that turn black when ripe.

Flowering Period

It flowers from April to December.

Human Uses

Over time, it has been cultivated in gardens and used in floral arrangements.