Originally introduced to South Africa as a groundcover and ornamental climber, this flowering species from the Araliaceae family is native to Europe.

However, in Cape Town, its rapid spread has made it a growing problem in both public and private spaces.
The City is actively managing Ivy infestations in public spaces, but community awareness and action remain critical to ensuring successful control.

The Ivy is listed as a Category 3 invasive species under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) (Act 10 of 2004) regulations and must be managed accordingly. In sensitive or riparian areas, its status escalates to Category 1b, requiring control.

 - Log sightings on the iNaturalist app and website to help the City track infestation

Remove Ivy safely at home:
• Manually pull out the Ivy stems and roots. The stems can be removed from the ground of a standing tree. Upper vines can be left to rot since they will die if they are not rooted.
• Follow up regularly to remove any new growth.
• Apply appropriate control methods to remove/control the infestation of Hedera spp. in persistent cases.
• Dispose responsibly – never dump trimmings in natural areas where Ivy can re-root and spread. A good option is to dry the vine clippings on a tarp (plastic or canvas sheet) or on a paved surface, then shred them. Another method is to put the vines in black trash bags and leave them in the sun for several weeks, until they’ve ‘cooked’ enough to be non-viable.