Woodbine (Parthenocissus vitacea)

Woodbine

Also known as: False virginia creeper

Woodbine (Parthenocissus vitacea) is a plant species native to the United States. This plant species attracts tumbling flower beetles and sweat bees. These insects collect pollen from its flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Woodbine (Parthenocissus vitacea)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Vine

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

20 m

Plant Height

15 m to 20 m

Spread

Green, Blue, White

Leaf Color

6 cm to 12 cm

Flower Size

Black, Blue

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Red, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Images of Woodbine

Distribution of Woodbine

Distribution Map

Parthenocissus vitacea is native to the North American continent, thriving in various regional climates. Over time, woodbine has expanded its reach, becoming an introduced species in several Eastern and Central European regions. Additionally, woodbine has been cultivated outside its original range, signalling its adaptability to new environments and popularity for cultivation.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Along streams and adjacent lawns and pastures

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Although it looks like one of the best-known garden vines, the Virginia Creeper, woodbine is its less vigorous, less attractive cousin. Still, it grows swiftly and can be used in native, informal, and cottage gardens to grow over trellises and fences, or as a ground cover to conceal unsightly surfaces quickly. However, it can't cling to walls.

Symbolism

Intellectual achievement, fertility

Name Story

Thicket creeper: It is a climbing and sprawling woody vine and the shrubs are formed through the climbing and spreading. These berries contain oxalates while the plant may tend to cause dermatitis in direct contact. Since it has a growing habit of a creeper, it is called thicket creeper.

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Toxicity

Ingesting woodbine berries or sap (leaves and stem) may cause fatal reactions, including mouth irritation and vomiting. Contact with its sap can result in itchy, inflamed dermatitis. Woodbine is often mistaken for the also poisonous Virginia Creeper.

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Care Guide for Woodbine

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Woodbine thrives in moist, woodland-like environments and prefers weekly watering. While it tolerates brief dry spells, it excels in outdoor settings due to its climbing nature. Adaptable to various climates, woodbine efficiently stores water, enhancing its survival across different rainfall patterns.

Fertilize: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring for woodbine. Switch to high nitrogen every 4-6 weeks during growth, using half the recommended rate. Reduce fertilization in fall and avoid it in winter. Always water thoroughly post-application to distribute nutrients and prevent root burn.

Pruning: Pruning woodbine in early spring improves health and control. Remove dead or damaged stems, thin overcrowded areas, and shorten long vines for shape. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease. This practice enhances air circulation and simplifies maintenance throughout the year.

Propagation: Woodbine is a woody vine that can be propagated via softwood cuttings or layering in spring or summer. With moderate difficulty, success is indicated by new root growth. Keep cuttings moist and in indirect sunlight until they are established.

Repotting: Woodbine thrives when repotted every 2-3 years in a larger pot during spring. Post-repotting, provide bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture to promote recovery and growth. With proper care, woodbine will elegantly enhance your space with its climbing attributes.

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