Boston Ivy

Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Vitaceae) is a vigorous deciduous climbing vine native to central China and Japan. It reaches 30 to 40 feet, attaching directly to surfaces with adhesive holdfasts that require no support structure. The variable leaves are typically three-lobed on mature plants (hence "Boston ivy"). Small black berries appear in fall. Foliage turns brilliant red to purple in autumn.

Boston ivy grows in full sun to shade across a wide range of soil types. It is faster to cover a wall than Virginia creeper and creates a denser, more uniform surface. Four diseases are documented. The adhesive holdfasts can damage surfaces when removed. The vine is widely used on masonry buildings. Hardy in Zones 4a to 8b.