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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 4.8 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Boston Ivy 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 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. Its ongoing care level 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
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate as Boston Ivy. 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 Boston Ivy
Plant Sale lists Boston Ivy as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
