Aneka's biology lesson Tuesday 24 March 2020: Ivy

Ivy leaves are typically multi-lobed, as above with a Speckled Wood butterfly and below.



However, once plants are well established (normally after around 10 years), growth switches to the adult phase. The leaves change shape, becoming un-lobed, growth becomes shrubby and covered with flowers in autumn and berries that ripen over winter and the following spring or early summer.
source:https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=1032

The flowers are a vital food source for insects that need to fatten up in Autumn for hibernation over the winter.  

The Red Admiral butterfly is an example, here at Knepp Castle https://knepp.co.uk/home on 10 October 2019.

click on any picture to expand it. 
http://www.peterlovetttalks.co.uk/butterflies.html