Hedera rhombea (Miq.) Bean

Taxonomic Identity and Growth Habit

Hedera rhombea (Miq.) Bean is an evergreen climbing plant. Where suitable vertical surfaces such as trees, cliffs, and walls are available, it can grow up to 10 meters high. When no vertical surfaces are present, it grows as ground cover instead.

Climbing Mechanism

It climbs by using aerial rootlets that cling to the substrate it grows on.

Stem Characteristics and Toxicity

Its stems are green; eating them is poisonous, and they contain an irritating sap.

Human Uses

This species is cultivated for garden use and employed in floral arrangements.

Leaf Morphology

Its leaves are medium green, shaped like a rhombic diamond — this characteristic gives the species its specific epithet, rhombea. Its leaf petioles are glossy and dark green.

Flower Characteristics

The bisexual flowers of Hedera rhombea measure 4–5 mm in diameter, are yellow-green in color, and are arranged in erect umbels.

Fruit Characteristics

Ripe fruits of this plant are round and black.