Virginia Creeper

Virginia creeper is a woody deciduous vine that is a member of the grape family. It is native to the eastern and central parts of North America from Canada down into Mexico. This plant is often confused with poison ivy as both are deciduous vines that grow in similar locations however poison ivy only has three leaflets per leaf while Virginia creeper has five leaflets per leaf. This vine is very vigorous in its growth pattern and can rapidly grow 30 to 50 feet long or more. It clings to houses, plants, fences and other structures by adhesive holdfasts or sucker disks located at the tendril ends or will creep along the ground if there is nothing to climb in the area.

The leaves turn a brilliant red in the fall, especially in areas where it receives lots of sunlight. The flowers on this plant are insignificant but they do provide nectar for bees. The fruits are enjoyed by songbirds and small mammals however the fruit is poisonous to humans and can cause nausea, abdominal pain, bloody vomiting and diarrhea, headache, sweating, drowsiness and death in some cases. Virginia creeper does well in places where it has room to grow or expand. Use it as a vertical screen between houses, on a sturdy trellis or let it run free over the ground in sloped areas to assist with erosion management.

This plant does have a high flammability rating and shouldn’t be planted near a house in areas where fire is a concern. You should also keep it away from other plants, painted surfaces or homes as it can cause serious damage to gutters, wooden shingles or pull the paint off of the walls if left to grow unchecked.

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu