The second in the new series of RHS Horticultural Monographs, Hedera: The Complete Guide, covers the surprisingly colourful diversity of ivy, from the 12 species to the extensive range of cultivars ideal for gardens and urban environments:
- All 12 species described in detail, plus keys to aid identification, including photographs taken in rarely seen wild habitats
- Nearly 200 of the most widely grown cultivars illustrated and fully described, conveniently grouped by leaf shape
- Results of research into the benefits of ivy for wildlife and the wider environment
- The use of ivy in decorative arts, folklore and medicine, and the history of the introduction of ivy species and cultivars into cultivation
- Botany, ecology and evolutionary history of this fascinating genus
- A checklist of more than 2,000 cultivars and scientific names, with synonymy and valuable information including dates, introducers and descriptions
- Advice on cultivation, propagation and inventive ways to use ivy in gardens
Hugh McAllister studied botany in Glasgow where he completed a PhD. He was Deputy Director of Ness Botanic Gardens and a lecturer in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Liverpool until retirement. In 2012 he was awarded a Veitch Memorial Medal by the RHS.
Rosalyn Marshall studied biology at the University of Sheffield. She is now Monographer (Intern) at the RHS, a position that supports the Society’s promotion of the Horticulture Matters campaign.