Interesting the very different experiences folks are having with this shrub. So I thought I would add my two cents from Toronto. I have two in my front garden (one of either side of the front walk), which is part sun and clay soil with lots of organic content. And they are excellent. I keep them relatively small with regular pinching, but I let them go a bit this Spring so I would get flowers and there are dozens on each shrub (still only about three inches across but growing everyday). They are bullet-proof and vigorous, for me, and their colour and form and highly dissected leaves are not easily replaceable. I have them with (among others) Liberty hosta, pincushion boxwood, Rozanne Geranium, Jack Frost Brunnera, Full Moon Maple, Krossa Regal and Blue Mammoth hostas, and Incrediball hydrangeas. I love the mix but it would be boring without the contrast this shrub brings, which makes everything around it pop. If I can figure out how to post pictures someday, I will.

Wilting of newly planted shrubs is a common problem - This is a simple watering issue. Potting soils are mostly organic and if allowed to dry out, they are difficult to rewet again. When watering newly planted shrubs, lay the garden hose directly above the roots and let the water trickle slowly into the potting soil. Sometimes a few drops of liquid dish soap per gallon of water can assist in rewetting the potting soil if it has dried out. The soap breaks down the water tension and allows for better wetting. Check your plants regularly the first year to make certain that the soil remains evenly moist. Use your finger to probe the potting soil. If you feel moisture, all is fine, if not, drench the roots as described above. Once your plant is established, it should require little attention unless you experience a prolonged drought. If so water accordingly.

I have both black lace and the lemony lace. Both from Rpoven Winners. They are planted about 3-4 away from each other. Full sun. Well drained neutral soil. Watered regularly. Zone 8b, Everett WA area. The lemony lace took off the first year (planted in the spring) and has never looked back. I’ll be pruning it hard this fall. Nether black lack is producing leaves but isn’t any taller than it was 2 years ago. It’s certainly not dead but sure not a fast, showy grower. On its third year, there is not enough to prune. My ninebarks grow everywhere, anywhere, ferociously. I love my copper and dark purple ninebark! I’ve been pruning the ninebark since the first year. I love the idea of the lacy black leaves on elderberry but it seems to be a very temperamental plant that looks good in the nursery.......

I think your ivy can be saved, but it will take a little work. It looks better than my ivy plants right now. They are pretty sensitive plants indoors, and I don't think they like a lot of temperature variation from day to day. After 3 years going strong, mine have started to suffer. We've had strange fluctuations in temperature--70 degrees one day, 20 degrees with low humidity the next--outdoor plants are blooming...it's very confusing for any plant, I'm sure. The shower recommendation, if the soil isn't too damp, is probably a good first move. I do this every time I water by gently spraying the leaves. It does take some time. Neem oil, I have not tried, only because I'm lazy. : )