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Virginia creeper
Also known as: Grape-Woodbine, Five-leaved ivy, Woodbine
The virginia creeper is a North American vine from the grape family that has it all - vigorous growth, fragrant flowers, decorative blue-colored berries, and leaves that turn crimson in the fall. Using small forked tendrils with adhesive pads, the virginia creeper will cling strongly to almost all surfaces. It can grow over entire walls, providing shelter and food for wildlife.
Scientific classification
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Toxic to Humans
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Vine
Plant Type
Early summer, Mid summer
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
20 m to 30 m
Plant Height
1.5 m to 3 m
Spread
Green, Red, Orange
Leaf Color
8 cm to 20 cm
Flower Size
Blue, Black
Fruit Color
Green, White, Yellow
Flower Color
Green
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
0 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring, Summer
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Virginia creeper

Attributes of Virginia creeper

Growth Rate
With its rapid growth rate, virginia creeper transforms markedly in spring and summer. Its fast-paced development stimulates profuse leaf expansion, converting bare stems to lush foliage. Growth irregularities may be noticed if conditions vary, yet the rapid pace typically maintains a vibrant greenery, adding an impressive vertical dimension to its horticultural profile.

Distribution of Virginia creeper

Distribution Map
Virginia creeper is native to eastern North America, from eastern Canada to El Salvador. This plant's native habitat varies from forests to swamps to areas of disturbed ground. It has been planted as an ornamental throughout the world but has become invasive in a few dozen countries in the Americas.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Woods, rocky banks
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Environmental Protection Value
Purifies the air, removing toxins and other harmful impurities.
Economic Value
Its vivid foliage, when grown in large patches, attracts tourists in the fall months.
Garden Use
Virginia creeper is a deciduous woody vine commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its colorful red foliage in autumn. Its spreading habit makes it suitable for erosion control and ground cover; whilst its large leaves are good for screening. Virginia creeper is essential in pollinator gardens. Plant with flowering creepers such as Clematis or Climbing Rose for aesthetic contrast.
Symbolism
Marriage, friendship, fidelity, tenacity, indirect progress, protection through concealment, intellectual or athletic achievement
Interesting Facts
The stem of the virginia creeper has many short pink filaments, which botanists call tendrils, with each one able to grow several suction cups that secrete viscous substances. These suction cups can adhere to the surface of hard objects as tightly as geckos can, enabling the stems to fix themselves onto rocks, trees or walls - even strong winds cannot blow them away! New tender stems continue to climb high, with vines growing up to 30 m in a gradual upwards direction.
Name Story
Virginia creeper: Parthenocissus quinquefolia has a strong climbing capability and is often seen covering entire walls, sometimes even enveloping an entire house. Its genus name, Parthenocissus, originates from the Greek language, meaning "virgin ivy". Now, it is more commonly known as the virginia creeper.
Five-leaved ivy: Its leaves are shaped similarly to a wide-open hand with five fingers. Furthermore, the species epithet for the plant 'Quinquefolia' means "five-leaved", which gives birth to the name, Five-leaved ivy.
Woodbine: Ordinarily, people would identify several different climbing plants as woodbine, with this being a common name for many species. However, when woodbine is referred to in North America, it is most likely the Parthenocissus quinquefolia being discussed.
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Toxicity

Virginia creeper berries contain highly toxic oxalic acid, fatal to humans if ingested. The sap can irritate skin. All parts of virginia creeper are mildly toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Immediate veterinary care is crucial. Monitor pets closely to prevent contact with the plant.
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RELATED: Toxicity of Virginia creeper

Quickly Identify Virginia creeper

1
Palmate leaves with 5 serrated leaflets, 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long.
2
Fall foliage transitions to red or purple, adding seasonal charm.
3
Small greenish-white flowers in clusters, 0.2 inches (5 mm) wide.
4
Smooth blue-black berries, 3/8 inch (9 mm) in diameter, favored by wildlife.
5
Slender trunk with gray-brown bark, aerial roots up to 5 inches (13 cm) long.
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Care Guide for Virginia creeper

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
0 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Virginia creeper thrives in woodland habitats with consistent moisture, preferring evenly moist soil. Once established, it shows moderate drought tolerance. Weekly watering is essential for hydration. As an adaptive climber, virginia creeper adjusts water uptake to support growth during the growing season.
Fertilize: Fertilizing virginia creeper promotes growth and lush foliage. Use balanced fertilizers in spring and high nitrogen in early summer, applying every 4-6 weeks. Adjust based on seasonal needs, with less in fall and winter. Water virginia creeper before and after fertilization to prevent root burn.
Pruning: Virginia creeper thrives with early spring pruning, removing dead stems, thinning overcrowded areas, and controlling vine spread. This promotes healthy growth, flowering, and improves air circulation, reducing disease risk while maintaining the plant's shape and size for an attractive garden appearance.
Propagation: Virginia creeper propagation is best done in spring and summer using softwood cuttings or layering. Success is indicated by new growth and roots. Utilize rooting hormone and ensure adequate moisture and sunlight for optimal results.
Repotting: For optimal growth of virginia creeper, use large containers and ensure frequent watering to maintain moisture levels.
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