Fig Ivy

Ficus pumila

Scientific Name: Ficus pumila
Common Names: Creeping Fig, Climbing Fig, Fig Ivy

Native to: East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam)
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 10 to 20 feet (as a vine)
Width: 3 to 6 feet (spreads when not contained)
Winter Look: Evergreen in mild climates; may be semi-evergreen in colder regions
Seasonal Interest: Glossy, heart-shaped leaves year-round; small, inconspicuous flowers (rarely seen)
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; prefers regular moisture but tolerates dry periods once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil
pH Range: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 8–11
Deer Resistance: Low; deer may browse on the plant
Attracts: Not particularly attractive to wildlife
Toxicity: Toxic to pets (especially cats and dogs) if ingested
Potential Issues: Can be invasive in warmer climates; may require regular pruning to prevent it from overtaking other plants or structures
Notes: Ficus pumila, commonly known as Creeping Fig or Climbing Fig, is a fast-growing, evergreen vine that is prized for its dense, lush coverage. This vine is often used to cover walls, fences, and trellises, or as a ground cover. It has small, heart-shaped leaves that create a thick, carpet-like appearance and is well-suited for adding greenery to vertical spaces. While Ficus pumila is relatively low-maintenance, it does require regular pruning to prevent it from spreading too aggressively, especially in warmer climates where it can become invasive. The plant attaches to surfaces using tiny aerial roots, making it ideal for growing on walls, but these roots can cause damage to surfaces over time. It is toxic to pets if ingested, so caution should be exercised in households with animals.

There's one that has a larger leaf too, I'll update as soon as I find the info on it.

Years ago, I worked at a nursery right next to a vet clinic. This clinic had the small and large leaf Fig Ivy growing on its walls. The large one ended up growing into the attic and out the other side of their building. It did a lot of damage!