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English ivy and Virgin's bower: growing conditions and wildlife benefits.

COMMON CHOICE English ivy Hedera helix	NATIVE ALTERNATIVE Virgin's bower Clematis virginiana
	GO NATIVE
Native range
Europe to western Russia	Central & E. Canada to Central & E. U.S.A.See state guides
Sunlight
Sun to full shade	Shade
Soil moisture
Moist, well-drained soil	Average moisture
Mature height
20–80 ft when climbing; low as groundcover	15–20 ft
Mature spread
3–50 ft	3–6 ft
USDA hardiness zones
4–13	6–8
Season of interest
Evergreen foliage	Fall
Garden & wildlife value
Not listed in the source profile.	Fragrant native flowers offer nectar for bees and hummingbirds, even in a shaded garden.
Growing notes
A vigorous climbing vine that can cover trees and suppress woodland seedlings.	A fast-growing vine that needs support and room; use moist, well-drained soil.
Growing information	Growing information Native range: Kew

Sizes describe the species; individual cultivars can differ.