This cloaking effect is seen among the buildings of Ivy League universities in the Northeast. In fall, the vines that cling to them are a mass of fiery color. No matter how at home these plants may seem, this ivy, Parthenocissus tricuspidata , is neither a true ivy nor is it American. It's actually related to grapes and native to Japan.
Its sister species, Parthenocissus quinquefolia, is truly homegrown. Named Virginia creeper in colonial times, these vines are found in forests across the eastern half of the United States. This creeper produces fall and winter berries that are poisonous to humans but vital forage to songbirds wintering over in lean seasons.
Like a true American, Parthenocissus quinquefolia is rather wild in character and would never dream of conforming to such rigid forms as its Ivy League sister. Young plants climb by tendrils that wrap themselves around supports much like grapes. Over time, they develop stronger clinging aerial rootlets that bear its weight.
This is a vine for all seasons, which makes it both infinitely attractive and easy to manage. In spring it leafs out in an eye-popping shade of lime-green. This color is outstanding against a darker-colored building wall. Summer deepens the foliage to a rich emerald. In fall, they take on intensely vivid shades of crimson before the leaves drop. Winter vines leave a spidery network of runners in full view for unique textured effects under a dusting of snow.
The fear of vines on houses centers on controlling them. Our Virginia creeper retains a very fine web-like growth that is easy to cut back or remove in winter when leaf-free. Unlike aggressive wisteria or trumpet vines, Virginia creeper is less inclined to invade attics and crawl spaces.
Buy and plant Virginia creeper in spring or fall. Look for 'Star Showers' Virginia creeper, which features "paint splatter" white markings on the leaves that turn pink as temperatures fall at season's end. Fast growth means that inexpensive one-gallon container plants are a good value and will cover quickly.
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