Irish ivy is a vigorous evergreen climber with large, leathery dark‑green leaves that root along stems to blanket walls, trees or banks up to 20 m. Shade‑tolerant and salt‑resistant, it excels in coastal gardens and stabilising slopes. Autumn umbel flowers are nectar‑rich for pollinators; black berries feed birds. Hardy to −20 °C. Prune late winter to curb spread and protect masonry.