Virginia creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia (L.) Planch.
Family: Vitaceae (Grape family)
Life cycle: Perennial
Habitat: Woodlands
Native status: Native to North America
General description: Woody vine that can climb to heights of 60 ft. Leaves are palmately compound with five leaflets, leaflets have toothed margins. Foliage turns red in the fall.
Key ID traits: Woody vine with five leaflets.
Similar species: Virginia creeper grows in the same habitat as poison ivy, but is easily distinguished by the five leaflets rather than three on poison ivy.
Miscellaneous: The sap of Virginia creeper can cause irritation to skin of some individuals. The plant has been used as an ornamental, either as a ground cover or to cover buildings. The aerial roots attach to surfaces with cup-like structures rather than penetrating the surface, so they are less damaging than some climbing plants. The plant is native to Iowa and is rarely a problem, but its occurrence with poison ivy and ability to cause rash result in many considering it to be a weed.
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Meaghan Anderson Field Agronomist in Central Iowa
Meaghan Anderson is a field agronomist in central Iowa and an extension field specialist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Educational programming is available for farmers, agribusinesses, pesticide applicators, certified crop advisors, and other individuals interested in...