Virginia creeper is a North American plant, grown for its stunning autumn colour. It is one of the most vigorous growing of the Parthenocissus genus. It climbs by means of tiny adhesive pads and such is the weight of a mature plant, it is not recommended for use on rendered walls. It is an excellent plant for covering outbuildings or large pergolas and can even be used as a ground cover plant.

It has leaves with five oval, toothed leaflets that turn to crimson, orange and red in autumn. The tiny, yellowish blooms appear in spring and may be followed by small blue-black fruits. For the best autumn colour, plant against an east or west-facing wall, where the plant will appreciate the partial shade.

Parthenocissus quinquefolia will grow well in most free-draining soils. Incorporate extra organic matter, such as well-rotted manure, to help with moisture retention enabling the plant to survive in drier conditions.

Growing Requirements

Position
Virginia creeper is tolerant of all weather, but the autumn foliage falls easily, so keeping the plant out of strong winds will give a longer autumn display. If planted on a windy site, young plants may need wall ties until they are established and fully adhered to the wall.

Size
It can reach 50ft (15m) and will cover a wall or outbuilding or climb into the tops of trees.

Propagation
The easiest way to propagate is from stem cuttings. Cut off a 5in (12.5cm) length of new growth, strip the leaves off near the cut end and dip it into hormone rooting powder. Place the cutting in a shallow pot of moistened sand or perlite and, in around 10 days, thin, fibrous roots will appear. When these roots are an inch or so long, plant the cuttings in pots, or outdoors.

Family: Vitaceae
Genus: Parthenocissus