A vigorous self-clinging deciduous vine with handsome five-fingered leaves that ignite into fiery red and burgundy tones in autumn. Excellent for quickly covering large walls, fences and pergolas.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 15 m H × 9 m W
- Aspect: full sun, part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Virginia Creeper
Parthenocissus quinquefolia is a fast-growing climber in the Vitaceae family. It reaches around 15 m tall and 9 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Virginia Creeper
Virginia Creeper suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun, part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Virginia Creeper does best in loamy, clay and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 5.4 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Virginia Creeper does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Virginia Creeper in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Virginia Creeper in the garden
Virginia Creeper earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting, a fast screen or informal hedge and holding soil on banks and slopes.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate as Virginia Creeper. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Virginia Creeper
Plant Sale lists Virginia Creeper as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
