If you want the look of lush greenery without the upkeep, preserved Hedera arborea is the answer.

Elegant and versatile, preserved ivy brings natural beauty to any space, home, office or event.

This stabilised foliage looks like fresh ivy but with the added bonus of being long lasting, it’s a favourite among interior designers, florists and decor lovers.

In this post we’ll cover everything you need to know about preserved ivy, from its interesting history and symbolism to its use in interior design and why it’s a sustainable alternative to fresh or fake plants.

 

The Origin and Natural Habitat of Hedera Arborea

 

Hedera arborea is a type of ivy, part of the Araliaceae plant family found throughout Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia.

It’s an evergreen shrub found in forests where it grows in shaded or partially shaded conditions.

Ivy has a long history and cultural significance, symbolising endurance and fidelity in ancient Greek and Roman cultures.

In Europe it was a feature of gardens and estates, loved for its foliage and ability to thrive in difficult conditions.

By preserving ivy at its best we capture this green natural product and make it available to enjoy in your home or commercial space without soil, watering or sunlight.

 

The Meaning and Symbolism of Ivy

Ivy has been symbolic across many cultures and centuries. Its ability to cling and grow on any surface symbolises resilience, determination and endurance.

In ancient Greece ivy was associated with the god Dionysus and was used in wreaths as a symbol of immortality and celebration.

Ivy’s evergreen nature represents eternal life and loyalty, it stays green all year round and adapts and flourishes in harsh conditions.

In medieval Europe ivy became a symbol of fidelity and was used in wedding decorations as a promise of everlasting love.

The plant’s ability to grow and thrive in difficult conditions also makes it a symbol of overcoming adversity and strength through resilience.

Today the timeless beauty of ivy makes it a meaningful choice for decor especially in spaces that celebrate steadfastness and harmony with nature.

 

Preserved Hedera Arborea – Key Features

 

Preserved green hedera looks like fresh green ivy thanks to a special preservation process that locks in its colour, texture and shape once it is treated. Here’s what’s unique about this foliage :

• Lush green leaves : Hedera arborea has lobed leaves with a slightly glossy finish, from dark to bright green. The treated version keeps this natural beauty and adds instant greenery to any decor.

   

• Various sizes and textures : Preserved ivy comes in different sizes, from small leafed to large leafed, so you have design flexibility for different style needs. Great for minimal spaces or greenery heavy decor.

By using bunches of preserved ivy you can have all the visual impact of the greenery without the hassle of keeping fresh ivy alive indoors.

 

The Preservation of Ivy

 

One of the benefits of preserved green hedera is its durability which comes from a special preservation process.

This process involves replacing the plant’s natural sap with a biodegradable, non-toxic preservation solution which has the ability to retain the ivy’s structure, flexibility and green colour and make it look remarkably lifelike.

The preservation process also means the ivy is resistant to wilting, fading and decomposition so it’s perfect for long term indoor use.

Unlike artificial plants, preserved green hedera has real texture and colours that can’t be replicated by plastic or silk. Plus preserved plants require no watering, sunlight or trimming so you can have greenery anywhere indoors.

 

Creative Decor ideas with hedera arborea

 

1. Home Decor with stabilised Ivy

 

Hedera arborea is a versatile natural product, so it’s perfect for transforming home spaces. Here are a few ways to use this plant in home decor :

 

• Wall Panels and Green Walls : Preserved hedera arborea is great for a green wall or accent panel. A way to bring nature indoors without the care.
• Mantle and shelf accents : Ivy is great for decorating mantles, shelves or stair railings. The green of stabilised ivy bunches brings warmth and calm to living rooms and bedrooms.
• Table Centrepieces : Use a bunch of ivy in a table top arrangement for a beautiful centrepiece. Combine with other preserved foliage or flowers for a more dramatic look for dining tables, coffee tables or entryways.

 

2. Commercial Decor with Preserved hedera arborea

 

Preserved ivy is used in commercial spaces for a reason. Businesses are going green in their decor to create welcoming, stylish and calming environments. Here are some top uses in commercial spaces :

 

• Reception and Lounge Areas : Preserved ivy panels or hanging installations bring warmth and elegance to reception areas, creating a great first impression on clients and visitors.
• Retail Displays : Ivy is great for adding visual interest to retail displays. Its trailing nature creates a flow and guides the eye across product displays and adds an organic feel.
• Restaurant and Cafe Decor : Ivy brings the outside in which is what customers are looking for in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Hang bunches of preserved ivy around windows, across ceilings or in small decorative accents to add an urban jungle feel without the maintenance.

3. Event and Wedding Decor with Preserved green hedera

 

The classic look of stabilised ivy makes it a popular choice for weddings, parties and events. Here are a few ways to use this foliage in event decor :

 

• Wedding Arches and Backdrops : Ivy’s elegant style is perfect for wedding arches and ceremony backdrops, a romantic feel that’s close to nature.
• Table Runners and Chair Decor : Ivy’s trailing vines can be used as table runners or woven into chair decor for weddings and dinner parties. It looks beautiful with flowers and other decor.
• Seasonal Decor and Holiday Displays : For holiday events tree ivy looks great with twinkling lights, ornaments, wreaths and seasonal decor, a festive yet elegant touch.

 

How to Care for preserved ivy

 

One of the best things about this foliage is that it requires minimal maintenance.

Here’s how to keep it looking fresh :

 

1.   No Direct Sunlight : While this plant is very durable, direct sunlight can cause fading over time. Place it in indirect light to keep it looking vibrant.

 

2.   Dust Occasionally : Like any decor item stabilised tree ivy can get dusty. Lightly dust with a soft cloth or a gentle brush every few weeks to keep it clean and fresh.

 

3.   Indoor Humidity : Extreme humidity changes can affect preserved plants. But stabilised ivy is generally happy in normal indoor environments.

 

4.   No Water : It doesn’t need water so avoid placing it in humid areas like bathrooms or near sinks. Water exposure can shorten its life and cause discolouration.

 

By following these simple steps preserved hedera arborea can last up to a year or several years and look lush throughout its life. It’s perfect for anyone who wants greenery without the maintenance of real plants.

 

Benefits of Using Preserved Ivy

 

As people become more environmentally aware, more are choosing preserved plants over fresh or artificial options. Here’s why it is an eco friendly choice :

 

1.   Reduces Water Usage : Unlike live plants preserved ivy doesn’t need water which helps conserve water resources. This is especially useful in areas with water restrictions or for businesses looking to reduce their footprint.

 

2.   Minimises Waste : Preserved ivy doesn’t wilt or decompose so there’s less plant waste. Its longevity means it can be enjoyed for longer and less need to replace live plants often.

 

3.   No Pesticides or Fertilisers : Since preserved ivy is no longer a living plant it doesn’t need pesticides or fertilisers which can harm the environment. This makes it a safer and more sustainable option.

 

4.   Biodegradable Preservation Solutions : High quality preserved plants use biodegradable solutions in the preservation process reducing the ecological footprint of synthetic or artificial plants.

 

5.   Longevity and Lower Carbon Footprint : Since preserved ivy has a long life fewer resources are used in its production and replacement. Less carbon footprint from replanting, transporting and disposing of fresh plants.

 

Preserved hedera arborea is nature’s beauty in a low maintenance package.

Its lush green leaves and flowing vines bring timeless greenery to homes, offices, events and more whilst being part of the sustainability movement.

Used as wall decor, in retail displays or as part of wedding decor this plant is eco friendly, versatile and chic. 

Incorporating preserved hedera arborea into your decor not only enhances the aesthetics of your space but also celebrates the resilience and beauty of nature — qualities symbolised by ivy for centuries.

 

Read more on our website or contact us for more information regarding price, length, weight of a bunch, stock and colours available.