Withstands some drought in desert areas, especially in winter. Widely planted ground cover. Often climbs fences, walls, trellises. Dependable, uniform, neat. Holds soil, discourages erosion and slippage on slopes.
Roots grow deep and fill soil densely.
Branches root as they grow, further knitting soil. Climbs any vertical surface by aerial rootlets. Shiny, rich green leaves 5-8 inches wide with three to five shallow lobes. Leaves are more widely spaced on stems than English ivy. Distinctive for its wine-red twigs and stems.