A self-clinging deciduous climber whose three-lobed green leaves turn brilliant crimson and scarlet in autumn before falling. The classic clothing for brick walls, it attaches by adhesive tendril pads.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 15 m H × 8 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Boston Ivy
Parthenocissus tricuspidata is a fast-growing climber in the Vitaceae family. It reaches around 15 m tall and 8 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Boston Ivy
Boston Ivy suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Boston Ivy 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 4.8 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Boston Ivy 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 Boston Ivy 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 Boston Ivy in the garden
Boston Ivy earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting, a fast screen or informal hedge and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Boston Ivy 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 Boston Ivy
Plant Sale lists Boston Ivy 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.