Parthenocissus quinquefolia
Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is a climber. Light: full sun, part shade, shade. Hardy down to -40 °C. Drought tolerance: high. Toxic to children. Sold in local shops from about €14. We do not recommend it because it is on the EU or the Hungarian list of invasive species.
A very fast, deciduous climber with flaming red autumn colour that copes with almost any soil in sun or shade. It climbs with tendrils ending in adhesive pads, so it goes up walls and fences on its own, but higher up it is worth backing it with wires or a trellis because the heavy mat of foliage can peel away. It needs cutting back every year or it will swallow gutters, windows and neighbouring plants; do not plant it near woodland or riverside habitats, as birds spread the seed.
| Group | Climber |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade, Shade |
| Size after 10 years | 10 m × 3 m |
| Ultimate size | 9–15 m × 1.5–3 m |
| Hardiness | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic |
| Foliage | Deciduous |
| Flowering | May–July, green |
| Water need | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | High |
| Maintenance | Medium |
| Root aggressiveness | Low |
| Suckering | no |
| Spreading | High |
| Distance from buildings | no data |
| Distance from paving | no data |
| Litter | Leaves, Fruit |
| Planting distance | 300 cm |
| For dogs | Toxic (uncertain) |
| For cats | Toxic (uncertain) |
| For children | Toxic |
| Typical price | from about €14 |
Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor.
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The same plant is sold as a small pot and as a specimen several metres tall, and the price follows. Prices are rounded and for guidance only.
|
Size
|
Typical price
|
|---|---|
| 70-80 cm | approx. €21 |
| size not stated | approx. €14 |
Data updated: October 8, 2026 · How our data is made
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