Virginia Creeper
(American Ivy, Five Leaved Ivy)
Parthenocissus quinquefolia "Engelmannii"
It can be assumed that the common German name "virgin grape" has been derived from the blue, apparently not fertilised, inedible berries.
Reddish coloured young shoot, old woody tendril with adhesive pads.
The Virginia Creeper is a moderate to good self-clinging vine and is well-known for its beautiful leaf form and autumn colouring. The species originates from North America and is amongst the most popular climbing plants.
Requirements
Sunny (full sun) to (semi-)shaded Position, will develop more beautiful autumn colours in the sun.
Growth Habit and Leaves
A vine that has both tendrils and adhesive pads, vigorous growth, yearly shoot growth 1 - 3 metres, often cascading. Depending on variety, reddish young shoots and large, strong, smooth or filigree leaves ("Engelmannii"). Often the closely related "P. inserta" is available under the name of P. quinquefolia, which does not stick to walls. Exceptionally healthy foliage, and extremely frost hardy. Foliage from May to October. Intense autumn colour! Can cause building damages.
Flower and Fruit
The inconspicuous green-yellow flowers in early summer are followed by blue-black berries on decorative red stalks. They are a favourite bird food, resulting in strongly staining faeces.
Growth Support Systems
Additional support to attach plant and to prevent collapsing is recommended. For suitable growth support systems see below. Light, for optimal development also Medium Support Systems and Heavy Duty Support Systems.
Pruning
Summer and winter pruning as needed, to restrain the vigorous growth habit. The plants are very easily shaped into any form.
Parthenocissus quinqefolia on the City Hall of Quedlinburg / Sachsen-Anhalt
Historical growth support, horizontal wires as prevention from collapsing. Detail see above, autumn image.
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Here the plants have already climbed to a height of approx. 25 metres. |
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Where the Virginia Creeper grows in a self-clinging manner, it develops a steeper and more narrow growth than the Boston Ivy. |
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Autumn colouring on the same specimen |
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IIn the shade the foliage develops a stronger yellow colour |
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The Virginia Creeper can develop quite strong adhesive pads and cause building damages. |
