Virginia creeper

Virginia creeper – (Parthenocissus), woody climbing plant, belonging to the grape family (Vitaceae). Virginia creeper is native to North America, East Asia and the Himalayas. There are about a dozen species, subdivided by origin. The three-leaved climber is native to East Asia; the five-leaved from China and single-leaved are found on rocks between 100 and 1100 meters in high altitude provinces in China.
The Virginia creeper likes not too heavy, nutrient-rich, moist soil, with normal acidity pH between 6 and 8). Preferably in sun or partial shade. Young shoots are susceptible to night frost in spring.
Virginia creeper can grow into a substantial climbing plant up to fifteen meter tall.
In autumn, the leaves turn deep red.
Virginia creeper is hardy, deciduous and self-adhesive on walls and fences. These should not face due south in the sun, then the surface is too “hot” for the suction cups by which the climber attaches. North-facing walls are also less suitable because no sun. Offshoots of the climber can still want to wriggle under roof tiles or gutters. In winter, when the leaves have fallen, prune the shoots to a meter below the gutter or eaves; this prevents problems. Winter is the best time to prune the Virginia creeper. Virginia creeper does not damage walls, even if the grouting is bad. Ivy can disrupt walls (grows in joints), the Virginia creeper does not. Virginia creeper keeps wall and fence dry in summer and early fall. Prevent the Virginia creeper from spreading over paintwork: the suction cups are difficult to remove.
Virginia creeper is a strong plant and not very susceptible to disease.