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Key characteristics

Family: Araliaceae
Height: 6 to 8 inches
Width: Spreads vigorously
Flower color: Typically inconspicuous; greenish-yellow
Foliage color: Bright, glossy yellow-green with a central splash of dark green
Bloom time: Late fall to early winter
Light: Partial to full shade
Water: Regular
Maintenance: Pruning is recommended to keep growth in check
Growing zone: 5 to 11
Wildlife: Can attract bees, birds, and butterflies

Groundcovers

Hedera helix ‘Gold Child’

Gold Child English Ivy

Hedera helix 'Gold Child' is a variegated ivy cultivar admired for its striking foliage, characterized by bright, glossy yellow-green leaves with a central splash of dark green. This evergreen climber typically grows up to 6-8 inches in height and spreads vigorously, making it ideal for ground cover or climbing. 'Gold Child' is easy to care for, thriving in moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade.

Light

Partial to full shade

Water

Regular

Bloom time

Late fall to early winter

Find this plant

Works well in

Woodland Gardens
Containers
Pathways & Walkways
Under Trees

Companion plants

Leuocothoe · Hellebores · Cyclamen · Japanese anemones · Acorus · Mountain laurels

Design tip

Allow the trailing stems to soften the edges of containers, walls, or shaded pathways where the variegated foliage can brighten darker spaces. Pair with broad-leaved evergreens and contrasting textures to create layered plantings that remain attractive throughout every season.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)