How to Grow Cape Ivy
Cape Ivy
Delairea odorata
vineCape Ivy is a fast-growing, evergreen climbing vine native to South Africa with ivy-like lobed leaves and small yellow daisy-like flowers. It is valued as an ornamental groundcover and climbing plant in mild climates, though it is considered invasive in some regions. The plant produces a subtle fragrance, particularly from the foliage when crushed.
When should you plant Cape Ivy in your zone?
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Example Cape Ivy timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cape Ivy
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Cape Ivy
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Cape Ivy dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; may survive as a perennial in zone 8b with protection
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Get my Cape Ivy timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung vine with small lobed leaves; slow initial growth as roots develop
Keep soil consistently moist; provide support structure or stake if desired; protect from wind and extreme heat
Vegetative Growth
2-4 monthsVigorous expansion with dense foliage and rapid vine extension along support structures or ground
Water regularly; apply balanced fertilizer monthly; prune to direct growth and maintain shape
Flowering
2-3 months (spring through summer)Small, bright yellow daisy-like flowers appear in clusters along stems
Maintain consistent watering; fertilize with phosphorus-rich formula to encourage blooms; deadhead spent flowers for continuous flowering
Maturity
Ongoing through growing seasonDense, sprawling vine with continuous flowering and lush foliage coverage
Prune back hard in late winter to prevent excessive spread and maintain plant vigor; watch for invasive growth
Dormancy (in cooler zones)
3-4 monthsMinimal growth and reduced flowering in winter months; foliage remains evergreen
Reduce watering frequency; cease fertilizing; protect from frost with mulch or cold frame if in zone 8b
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase air circulation; remove heavily infested leaves
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap
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Spray with water and neem oil; increase humidity; apply sulfur-based fungicides if severe
Uses
Ornamental Groundcover and Climber
HouseholdCape Ivy's vigorous growth habit and attractive foliage make it an excellent choice for covering bare ground, banks, or climbing along trellises and fences. Its evergreen nature provides year-round garden interest and erosion control. [source]
Fragrant Foliage
HouseholdThe crushed leaves emit a pleasant fragrance, making Cape Ivy a subtle aromatic addition to gardens and green spaces. The scent is often released when the plant is touched or brushed against during maintenance. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe bright yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making Cape Ivy a valuable component of pollinator-friendly gardens and landscapes. [source]
Fast-Growing Screen
HouseholdDue to its rapid growth rate, Cape Ivy quickly creates privacy screens and visual barriers, making it useful for screening unsightly areas or creating living walls in mild climates. [source]
Floral Arrangements
CraftThe delicate yellow flowers and attractive foliage can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements, adding texture and bright color to bouquets and decorative displays. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cape Ivy is not typically harvested for food or medicine; instead, pinch back growing tips regularly to encourage bushier growth and fuller coverage. Prune heavily in late winter or early spring to control size and rejuvenate the plant. Remove dead or damaged wood anytime. Flowers can be enjoyed in the garden but do not require harvesting.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cape Ivy is considered an invasive species in parts of California and other mild climates, capable of smothering native vegetation and forming dense mats that can persist for years.
- 🌱 The plant's scientific name, Delairea odorata, references its fragrant foliage, with 'odorata' meaning 'fragrant' in Latin.
- 🌱 Cape Ivy can spread via seeds dispersed by birds and wind, as well as through vegetative fragments that root readily in moist soil, making it highly prolific in favorable conditions.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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