Virginia Creeper Woodbine

Virginia creeper is the vigorous, deciduous vine that climbs by adhesive tendrils, covering walls, fences, and tree trunks with a curtain of five-part compound leaves that turn brilliant crimson to scarlet in fall. The fall color is as good as any woody plant in the landscape, vivid, reliable, and visible from a distance. Small blue-black berries in fall are eagerly taken by birds. Native across eastern North America, it climbs thirty to fifty feet and attaches to masonry, wood, and bark with equal tenacity.

In Western Washington, Virginia creeper grows in sun to full shade and adapts to virtually any soil. It is one of the most aggressive climbers available, which means careful siting is critical. On a large masonry wall, a pergola, or a dead tree, it provides spectacular fall color and summer screening. On a house, it can pry into crevices, lift shingles, and overwhelm gutters if not maintained. No significant disease or pest concerns are tracked. The five-leaflet compound leaves distinguish it from poison ivy, which has three. For large-scale vertical coverage with outstanding fall color, Virginia creeper is the vine, just give it a structure it cannot damage.