About the Virginia
Creeper :
The Virginia Creeper, Parthenocissus quinquefolia,
is a fast-growing, high-climbing vine that attaches
itself with tendrils which expand, disk-like, on
their tips. The deciduous leaves that radiate
outward from a leaf stem, like spokes on a wheel.
Each leaflet is about 3"-7" long and an inch or two
wide. The leaves turn fiery red in fall and are very
showy. The individual flowers are tiny and
inconspicuous, and arranged in elaborate
long-stemmed clusters, with each flower at the tip
of its own flower stem. The berries are blue-black,
less than a half-inch across and much relished by
birds. Easy to grow, the Virginia Creeper can get
out of hand if not managed.
Also known as Woodbine, it will send up sprouts
and seed itself, and established plantings may
smother shrubs and trees. Virginia creeper will
thrive in most soils, in sun or shade, with or
without a structure to climb on. Virginia creeper is
favored for its brilliant fall foliage and as a
manitenance-free ground cover. When allowed to
clamber over trees or other tall structures, it
develops elongated leafy festoons that are
especially showy. Where there is nothing to climb,
it attaches to the ground with adventitious roots,
and makes an excellent cover for slopes or other
places where grass is not practical or desired.
