Virginia Creeper

Light Needs

Full Shade to Full Sun

(Can Grow In Most Sunlight Conditions)

Mature Height

40 - 50 Feet

Mature Spread

40 - 50 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

Virginia Creeper is a hardy, climbing vine that puts on a lovely, leafy display. The foliage of the Parthenocissus quinquefolia grows in clusters known as palmates, with each grouping featuring five leaflets. The foliage is elliptical and comes to a long, narrow point with serrated edges. The leaves are dark green for most of the growing season before turning a deep shade of burgundy during the fall. Unassuming flowers bloom in the spring and give way to deep purplish-blue berries.

This vine will naturally reach and explore and can easily cover a fence or trellis with greenery. Plant near a wall or structure the vines can use for support, and this fast-growing plant will engulf the structure in no time. The dense foliage will create privacy while also allowing birds to hide as they eat the berries. Virginia Creeper is a native plant that grows as a perennial in USDA zones 4 through 8.

Virginia Creeper Care

Virginia Creeper needs full sun to reach its full potential and put on a stunning fall foliage show, but consider planting in an area with partial shade when grown in warm climates. Plant in moist but well-drained soil. This beauty is not picky about the pH of the soil. New plants need consistent and deep watering, but established plants can handle drier conditions. Keep to a consistent watering schedule for best results.

Prune this plant in late winter or early spring to maintain the size. Damaged growth can be removed at any time, as can any vines that become detached. Once vines lose their grip, they will not reattach. Feed this plant each spring using a balanced fertilizer. 

Virginia Creeper Spacing

This vining perennial can grow 40 to 50 feet long and wide under the right conditions. Plant vines 5 to 10 feet apart and provide a trellis or something the climbing vines can use for support so that the foliage will be on full display.