Parthenocissus quinquefolia, commonly known as Virginia Creeper, is a vigorous, woody, deciduous vine native to woodlands, forest edges, and fence rows throughout Illinois. It thrives in a wide range of soil types and light conditions—from full sun to deep shade—making it one of the most adaptable native vines for naturalized landscapes, wildlife plantings, and vertical coverage.
This fast-growing vine climbs by means of branched tendrils tipped with adhesive disks, allowing it to cling to walls, trees, rocks, and fences without penetrating surfaces like some ivy species. It features compound leaves with five coarsely toothed leaflets (hence the name quinquefolia), which turn brilliant shades of red and purple in fall. In late spring to summer, it produces small greenish flowers that are followed by dark blue to black berries in fall—an important food source for birds.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Virginia Creeper is a valuable and low-maintenance species that provides erosion control, wildlife habitat, and seasonal beauty. It supports nesting birds and offers nectar and pollen for native insects, though it should be given ample space due to its aggressive growth. It pairs well in wild or naturalized settings with native shrubs and trees like Serviceberry, Ninebark, and Oak, adding vertical diversity and ecological richness to the landscape.
Parthenocissus quinquefolia, commonly known as Virginia Creeper, is a vigorous, woody, deciduous vine native to woodlands, forest edges, and fence rows throughout Illinois. It thrives in a wide range of soil types and light conditions—from full sun to deep shade—making it one of the most adaptable native vines for naturalized landscapes, wildlife plantings, and vertical coverage.
This fast-growing vine climbs by means of branched tendrils tipped with adhesive disks, allowing it to cling to walls, trees, rocks, and fences without penetrating surfaces like some ivy species. It features compound leaves with five coarsely toothed leaflets (hence the name quinquefolia), which turn brilliant shades of red and purple in fall. In late spring to summer, it produces small greenish flowers that are followed by dark blue to black berries in fall—an important food source for birds.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Virginia Creeper is a valuable and low-maintenance species that provides erosion control, wildlife habitat, and seasonal beauty. It supports nesting birds and offers nectar and pollen for native insects, though it should be given ample space due to its aggressive growth. It pairs well in wild or naturalized settings with native shrubs and trees like Serviceberry, Ninebark, and Oak, adding vertical diversity and ecological richness to the landscape.
Bloom: early to mid-summer
Habitats: abandoned or little-used railroads; deciduous woodlands; fence rows; gravelly seeps; limestone glades; rocky bluffs; thickets; walls of buildings; woodland borders
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to slightly dry
Plant type (height): woody vine (up to 60 feet)
Requirements: partial sun
Soil: clay-loam; loam
