Virginia Creeper

Common Name: Virginia Creeper

Specific Name: Parthenocissus quinquefolia

Known Occurrence at Taylor Point:

Map Areas: Cliffs 2B, Cliffs 2C, Cliffs 2D, Woodlands 3A, Woodlands 3B, Woodland 3C, Woodland 3D, Bridge 4A

Category: Native, Vine

Ecological Considerations:

Parthenocissus quinquefolia is a fast-growing, deciduous, climbing vine that has tendrils with adhesive tips that adhere to trees and other climbed surfaces. It can grow, given a suitable substrate, easily 30 to 50 feet. Its leaves have a distinctive five-leaflet structure and a toothed margin. They are green in spring and summer and turn bright red in autumn before falling off in winter.

Virginia Creeper’s small inconspicuous greenish white flowers bloom from late spring through summer and give way in early fall to dark blue berries that grow in clusters. The berries provide a source of winter nourishment to many birds. Though not toxic to birds, the berries are toxic to humans owing to their oxalic acid content which can cause kidney damage and even death.

Virginia Creeper is frequently found in disturbed areas, alongside woodlands and roadsides, growing well in full sun to partial shade. It will tolerate full shade. Pollution and salt tolerant, it has an extensive root system.

Map Areas where this Plant can be used for Revegetation:

Propagation Mechanisms/Strategies for Encouraging its Establishment: Best Planting Practices/Options and Pros and Cons of Options:

Key Issues Regarding its Ecology ( e.g. Which Invasives Threaten it, What Conditions Favor it):

Associated Ecological Benefits:

Songbirds and squirrels eat the fleshy berries of this vine. This vine can also be used to reclaim erosion-prone areas.

Availability of Locally Sourced Seeds and Plants: