German Ivy (often mistaken for a small tree/shrub seedling in its early stages)
Delairea odorata · Perennial Vine (often classified as Invasive/Ornamental)
Plant Family
Asteraceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Invasive Climber
Variety / Cultivar
None specified; wild type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11; frost-sensitive but can resprout from roots after light freezes.
About This Tree
While not a tree, this scrambling vine fastens onto trees to climb. It has a succulent-like texture in its early growth with thin, trailing stems and distinctive ivy-shaped, bright green leaves.
Leaf Characteristics
Leaves are simple, alternate, and light green with 5 to 7 sharp lobes. They have a waxy, fleshy texture and a distinctive 'ivy' shape similar to English ivy but more succulent.
Bark Characteristics
Not traditional bark; young stems are thin, green, and fleshy, becoming slightly woody and brownish-gray at the base with significant age.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to South Africa; widely naturalized in coastal California, Australia, and New Zealand
Growing Season
Year-round in temperate/mediterranean climates; flowers in winter with yellow clusters
Sunlight & Water Needs
Partial shade to full sun; prefers moist soil but is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Mature Size
Climbs or trails up to 15-30 feet in length; lacks a central trunk diameter as it is a vine.
Special Characteristics
Highly invasive in coastal ecosystems; it smothers native vegetation. It is salt-tolerant and spreads through both wind-dispersed seeds and stem fragments.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nectar for pollinators during winter months; however, it is generally detrimental to native habitats as it displaces local flora and reduces biodiversity.