Parthenocissus quinquefolia, commonly known as Virginia creeper, is a vigorous native vine known for its fast growth and striking red fall color. It climbs using tendrils with adhesive tips making it ideal for covering fences, walls, and arbors.
Height & Spread: Climbing 30 - 50 ft x spreading 6 - 10 ft or more
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to full shade
Soil Preference: Well drained to moist soils; highly adaptable
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This species is native to eastern and central North America, commonly found in woodlands, along fence rows, and in disturbed areas.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- The dark blue berries are eaten by a variety of songbirds including Northern Cardinals, American Robins, and Eastern Bluebirds. Dense foliage offers cover and nesting habitat.
Beneficial Insects
- The small flowers attract bees, wasps, and other pollinators, while the foliage provides shelter for overwintering insects.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Plant 5 - 10 ft apart along fences or walls for effective screening and climbing coverage.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for covering large structures, unsightly walls, or fences. Suitable for naturalized areas or wildlife gardens where it can grow freely.
Companion Plants
- Rudbeckia triloba (Brown Eyed Susan) - Offers upright yellow flowers that bloom as Virginia creeper transitions to fall color.
- Solidago caesia (Blue Stem Goldenrod) - Grows well in light shade and supports pollinators at the base of the vine.
- Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - Provides a tidy ground layer beneath taller vine structures.
- Amsonia tabernaemontana (Bluestar) - Adds texture and cool blue blooms in spring with golden fall foliage.
- Vaccinium corymbosum (Highbush Blueberry) - Produces edible fruit and vibrant red foliage to echo Virginia creeper’s autumn display.