Virginia creeper
Parthenocissus inserta · Vitaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around virginia creeper and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, dark green, reddish in autumn
- Flowering
- Summer (discreet, poorly ornamental flowers)
- Adult size
- Up to 15 m in height depending on support
- Growth
- Fast and vigorous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-20°C and below)
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Adapted to all soils, tolerant
- Adhesion
- Natural adhesive tendrils (terminal discs)
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the first year to promote root establishment. Once well established, common Virginia creeper is very tolerant of drought and only needs occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. In very arid regions, summer watering can improve its vigor.
Light exposure
Install this plant in full sun or partial shade. It adapts to all light levels, but autumn coloration will be more spectacular and earlier in the sun. It also tolerates north-facing or shaded facades.
Pruning and training
Prune after flowering or in late winter to control its development and prevent it from overrunning your roof or gutters. Cut dead or poorly positioned stems. No strict pruning is necessary; let it develop freely if space allows.
Fertilizer
An annual application of compost or organic fertilizer in spring is more than enough. Common Virginia creeper is undemanding and thrives without additional fertilization. Avoid excess, which could stimulate excessive growth at the expense of autumn coloration.
Soil
This plant adapts to all soil types: acidic, neutral or chalky, rich or poor. Well-drained soil is preferable to prevent root suffocation in case of prolonged waterlogging.
Diseases and pests
Common Virginia creeper is very resistant to diseases and pests. Occasionally, powdery mildew may appear in very humid conditions; good air circulation is generally sufficient to control it. Chemical treatment is usually not necessary.
Did you know?
Parthenocissus inserta is famous for the adhesive discs at the ends of its tendrils, veritable botanical little suction cups that allow it to cling even to smooth surfaces: you often find it covering brick or concrete walls without needing external support. Its scientific name comes from the Greek 'parthenos' (virgin) and 'kissos' (ivy), evoking its reproductive independence, unlike common ivy.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- GrapevineVitis vinifera
- Virginia creeperParthenocissus quinquefolia
- Boston ivyParthenocissus tricuspidata
- Amur peppervineAmpelopsis brevipedunculata
- Porcelain berryAmpelopsis glandulosa
- MuscadineVitis rotundifolia
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.