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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 5.4 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Virginia Creeper is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
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. Overall it 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Virginia Creeper with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
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. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.