Common Name(s): | Virginia Creeper, Redtwig Creeper |
Scientific Name: | Parthenocissus quinquefolia |
Family: | Vitaceae |
Longevity: | Perennial |
Season: | Warm |
Origin: | Native |
Height: | 9 m |
Flowers: | May - July |
Fruits: | Fall |
Description: A high climbing or prostrate woody vine. Widespread on a variety of sites, usually climbing trees or trailing along forest floors. A potential ornamental because of its ability to climb walls and its striking red fall foliage. Although it is sometimes confused with Poison-ivy, Virginia-creeper has five to six leaflets and does not cause contact dermatitis. However, the fruit is reportedly poisonous and the plant tissues contain microscopic, needle-like crystals that can cause irritation. The fruit is eaten by squirrels and many species of birds. |