Parthenocissus tricuspidata is a vigorous deciduous vine prized for its ability to cling to walls, fences, or arbors without support thanks to adhesive tipped tendrils. Its lush glossy green three lobed leaves provide excellent summer coverage turning brilliant shades of scarlet and crimson in the fall. Adaptable and fast growing, it is often used for vertical greening of buildings or as a ground cover for erosion control.
Height & Spread: 30 - 50 ft x 5 - 10 ft
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; tolerant of urban pollution
Watering Needs: Low to moderate once established
Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant due to bitter tasting foliage
Native Status
Originally native to East Asia, Parthenocissus tricuspidata is naturalized in many regions and commonly cultivated across North America. It is not a native species but is widely used for ornamental and functional purposes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Dark berries produced in late summer are a food source for robins, cardinals, and cedar waxwings.
Beneficial Insects
- The dense foliage provides shelter for predatory beetles and overwintering ladybugs supporting natural pest control.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 6 - 10 ft spacing between plants when used as a ground cover or spaced for wall coverage.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for vertical applications like walls, fences, or pergolas; also effective as a low maintenance ground cover on slopes.
Companion Plants
- Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea) - Adds texture and contrasting bloom shape with shade tolerance.
- Clematis terniflora (Sweet Autumn Clematis) - Offers complementary late season white flowers and can be co trained on structures.
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' - Graceful arching stems with white edged leaves pair well under vine shade.
- Carex morrowii 'Ice Dance' - Bright edged foliage provides a soft base beneath vines or in adjacent shade beds.
- Epimedium x rubrum - Delicate red and yellow flowers in spring and heart shaped foliage offer seasonal interest beneath vines.