Cape-ivy (Delairea): A Beautiful But Problematic Plant You Should Avoid
If you’ve ever encountered Cape-ivy in the wild, you might have been charmed by its cheerful yellow flowers and lush, trailing growth. But before you consider adding this South African native to your garden, there’s something important you need to know: this seemingly innocent plant has become one of the most aggressive invaders in many parts of the United States.
What is Cape-ivy?
Cape-ivy (Delareira) is a perennial forb that grows as a trailing vine. Originally from South Africa, this non-native plant has established itself across several U.S. states, including California, Hawaii, Montana, and Oregon. As a forb, it lacks the woody stems of shrubs and trees, instead producing soft, herbaceous growth that can quickly carpet the ground or cascade over walls and fences.
Why Cape-ivy is Problematic
While Cape-ivy might look attractive with its heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small, yellow daisy-like flowers, it’s considered highly invasive in many regions. This aggressive spreader can quickly overwhelm native plants, forming dense mats that block sunlight and crowd out indigenous species that local wildlife depends on.
The plant’s vigorous growth habit allows it to:
- Smother native vegetation
- Alter soil chemistry
- Reduce biodiversity in natural areas
- Create fire hazards due to its dense growth
Growing Conditions and Characteristics
Cape-ivy thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, preferring mild, moist conditions. It’s particularly well-adapted to coastal climates and can tolerate both sun and shade, making it incredibly versatile—and unfortunately, successful—in a variety of environments.
Key characteristics include:
- Trailing, vine-like growth habit
- Heart-shaped, succulent-like leaves
- Small yellow flowers that bloom in clusters
- Rapid growth rate and aggressive spreading
- Ability to root at nodes along stems
Our Recommendation: Choose Native Alternatives
Given Cape-ivy’s invasive nature, we strongly recommend against planting it in your garden. Instead, consider these native alternatives that can provide similar aesthetic benefits without the ecological concerns:
- Wild ginger for shaded ground cover
- Native honeysuckle species for trailing growth
- Regional native vines appropriate to your area
- Indigenous wildflowers for pollinator support
If You Already Have Cape-ivy
If Cape-ivy has already established itself in your garden or property, removal is the best course of action. Hand-pulling is most effective when the soil is moist, and it’s important to remove all plant fragments, as Cape-ivy can regrow from small pieces. Always dispose of removed plant material in municipal green waste—never compost it or leave it in natural areas.
Supporting Your Local Ecosystem
By choosing native plants over invasive species like Cape-ivy, you’re supporting local wildlife, preserving biodiversity, and helping maintain the natural balance of your region’s ecosystem. Native plants provide food and habitat for local birds, butterflies, and other wildlife in ways that non-native species simply cannot match.
When planning your garden, consult with local native plant societies or extension services to discover beautiful, regionally appropriate plants that will thrive in your specific conditions while supporting your local environment.
