Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)

Also known as: Grape-Woodbine, Five-leaved ivy, Woodbine

The Virginia Creeper, a North American vine from the grape family, boasts robust growth, fragrant blooms, and striking blue berries. Its leaves transform to a vivid crimson in autumn. Equipped with small forked tendrils and adhesive pads, it firmly attaches to various surfaces, often covering entire walls and offering habitat and nourishment for wildlife.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Virginia creeper

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Vine

Plant Height

20 m to 30 m

Spread

1.5 m to 3 m

Leaf Color

Green Red Orange

Flower Size

8 cm to 20 cm

Flower Color

Green White Yellow

Images of Virginia creeper

Quickly Identify Virginia creeper

Palmate leaves with 5 serrated leaflets, 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long.

Fall foliage transitions to red or purple, adding seasonal charm.

Small greenish-white flowers in clusters, 0.2 inches (5 mm) wide.

Smooth blue-black berries, 3/8 inch (9 mm) in diameter, favored by wildlife.

Slender trunk with gray-brown bark, aerial roots up to 5 inches (13 cm) long.

Scientific Classification of Virginia creeper

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Vitales

Family

Grape

Genus

Parthenocissus

Species

Virginia creeper

Planting and Growing of Virginia creeper

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Virginia creeper?

For Parthenocissus quinquefolia, also known as Virginia creeper, the watering principle is to keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Water until the soil feels moist down to about 5-10 cm deep, ensuring the water reaches the root zone effectively without waterlogging.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Virginia creeper? ›

What should I do if my Virginia creeper is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Virginia creeper? ›

How to save an overwatered Virginia creeper? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Virginia creeper?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Parthenocissus quinquefolia thrives with partial to full sun exposure. Ideal light conditions promote vibrant autumnal foliage and robust vine development, vital for its ornamental appeal.

Optimal Light Duration ›

Sunlight Exposure Solution ›

Benefits of Ideal Lighting ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Virginia creeper?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 85℉

Parthenocissus quinquefolia thrives best when the temperature is between 60°F and 85°F. This range supports optimal photosynthesis and metabolic activities, ensuring robust growth and vibrant foliage. Maintaining this temperature range aids in proper nutrient absorption and reduces the risk of stress-related diseases.

What Soil is Best for Virginia creeper?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Clay soil, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Parthenocissus quinquefolia thrives best in well-drained soil conditions. Adequate drainage ensures that the roots do not sit in water, preventing root rot and other moisture-related issues, thereby promoting vigorous growth and a healthy plant structure. This plant flourishes in soils that are rich in organic matter and essential nutrients. A nutrient-dense ground promotes vibrant foliage and abundant growth, sustaining the plant's photosynthesis and metabolic processes for optimal health. While well-drained, the soil should also have some moisture retention capacity. This balance ensures the plant remains hydrated during dry spells without being waterlogged, supporting sustained growth and vitality. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Virginia creeper?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Parthenocissus quinquefolia, apply liquid fertilizer at the recommended rate on the product label, usually about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. Ensure even distribution to cover the entire root zone without saturating the foliage. For slow-release fertilizer, follow the manufacturer’s guidance, often around 1 to 2 pounds per 100 square feet. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Virginia creeper?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

To maintain shape and encourage denser growth, trim your Parthenocissus quinquefolia once a month. Focus on cutting back excessive length and untamed growths to keep the plant tidy and controlled. Remove older wood that appears brittle and indicative of diminished vitality. This will stimulate the plant to redirect resources to healthier, younger stems, promoting lush new growth. After cutting older wood and thinning out dense areas, new growth will be encouraged. This practice not only revitalizes the plant but also helps in maintaining its aesthetic appeal. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Virginia creeper plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late spring, Early spring, Summer

Choose healthy, disease-free plants as your source of cuttings. This ensures that the new plants will be strong and disease-resistant.

Cut a 5-6 inch segment just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few at the top to support photosynthesis.

Insert the cuttings into a pot filled with moist potting mix. Ensure that at least one leaf node is below the soil surface.

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How to Repot Virginia creeper plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

You'll know it's time to repot your Parthenocissus quinquefolia when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes, or if the plant's growth has noticeably slowed down. These are clear indicators that the plant has outgrown its current container, and repotting will provide it with space and nutrients to continue flourishing.

When selecting a pot, make sure to choose one that is about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. A pot with drainage holes is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A slightly larger pot allows room for new root growth while preventing the soil from staying overly damp.

Opt for a rich, well-draining potting mix. This ensures good aeration and supports healthy root development. The well-draining nature of the mix prevents water accumulation, reducing the risk of root diseases, and it also provides essential nutrients to promote vigorous foliage growth.

Toxicity of Virginia creeper

Is Virginia creeper toxic to humans?

The berries of the Virginia creeper are laden with dangerously high concentrations of oxalic acid, which can be lethal to humans if consumed. Additionally, ingesting these berries may lead to kidney damage. Symptoms of poisoning from Virginia creeper may manifest as nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. Furthermore, the sap found in the leaves and stem can cause skin irritation in certain individuals. Given its rapid growth as a vine that can either ascend structures or spread along the ground, people might unintentionally encounter fractured sections of the plant and become exposed to its sap.

Is Virginia creeper toxic to cat?

Virginia creeper can be mildly toxic to cats, presenting potential risks if ingested in large quantities. Every part of the virginia creeper plant carries the ability to be harmful. If consumed, a cat may exhibit signs of physical distress, suggesting possible poisoning. It is crucial for cat owners to monitor their pets' interactions with this plant. In cases of ingestion, swift consultation with a veterinary clinic is essential for effective treatment, safeguarding the health and well-being of the feline friend.

Is Virginia creeper toxic to dog?

Virginia creeper presents a mild toxicity risk to dogs. Canines are at risk of poisoning from this plant if they ingest it in large quantities. Every part of the virginia creeper plant is deemed toxic and can lead to negative reactions in dogs. Should a dog chew or consume any portion of virginia creeper, it may display symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, or excessive drooling. It's essential for dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets and restrict their access to areas where virginia creeper is present. If a dog does consume virginia creeper, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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