About
Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Virginia creeper, is a vigorous, large, deciduous climber with leaves of 5 ovate leaflets that turn brilliant red and orange in autumn. Flowers are inconspicuous; berries are blue-black. An outstanding climber for a large wall, fence or tree, especially for autumn colour.
About the genus
Parthenocissus are vigorous, deciduous climbers with either tendrils or disc-like adhesive pads and lobed or palmate leaves that colour brilliantly in autumn. Excellent plants for covering walls, fences and large trees.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesWalls, fences, pergolas, arches.
Native toEastern N America
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 12350,parthenocissus-tricuspidata,Parthenocissus tricuspidata,Boston ivy,Parthenocissus tricuspidata
Care notes
CultivationThis plant is listed on Schedule 9 of the UK Wildlife & Countryside Act as an invasive non-native species. While this does not prevent it from being sold in the UK, or from being grown in gardens, the RHS encourages those that do grow it to take great care with managing it and with disposing of unwanted material. The RHS also encourages gardeners to find alternative plants to grow to those listed on Schedule 9. For suggested alternative plants see the Plantlife/RHS guide: Gardening without harmful invasive plants
PruningMinimal pruning required. Remove dead or damaged growth as needed.
PropagationPlease see cultivation notes
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus