Efeu Harlekijn - Hedera helix

The Common Efeu 'Harlekijn' (Hedera helix 'Harlekijn') is a climbing or creeping plant that stands out for its brightly coloured variegated leaves. This variety of Efeu produces lobed leaves in shades of green, speckled with yellow to cream white, which change colour over the weeks. It can be used to adorn walls, in pots or in hanging displays in the garden, or as an indoor plant.

The Efeus belong to the Araliaceae family. The genus Hedera comprises about a dozen species, the most widespread in our latitudes being the Common Efeu, in Latin Hedera helix. This giant of our forests can reach lengths of several metres and climb to the tops of trees.

The Hedera helix 'Harlekijn', with a more moderate growth, is characterised by its variegated leaves, changing from light green speckled with yellow to dark green speckled with white. The leaves are broad, with several lobes, glossy, with wavy and scalloped edges. This plant exhibits rapid growth, especially in spring and summer, and it can reach 3 m in height if trained. Its stems cling to supports by means of powerful clamps. The Common Efeu 'Harlekijn' rarely flowers indoors, but when grown outdoors, it can produce flowers in September-October, followed by black berries. Its greenish flowering, in the form of globular inflorescences, is an excellent nectar source for bees. Its black berries, toxic to humans, represent an excellent source of winter food for birds.
Quite rustic, the 'Harlekijn' Efeu can withstand temperatures down to about -18 °C, and it can be cultivated practically anywhere, requiring no special maintenance.

The Hedera helix 'Harlekijn' will fit perfectly in a contemporary garden, in a lush conservatory, or in a bright, not overly heated room. It is among the plants known for their air-purifying qualities. Plant it at the base of a wall. It will be valuable for dressing a vertical surface or enhancing the decor of a terrace. This plant will cascade in variegated drapes along large troughs or hanging pots. In the garden, it forms a elegant ground cover. Pair it with easy-going woodland perennials such as Epimedium, Pulmonaires, or Hellebores.