Virginia Creeper

Parthenocissus quinquefolia

General Information:

This deciduous, woody vine is easily grown in average to medium moisture environments in full or part shade. It can grow between 30-50 feet tall and spread over 10 feet. It is native to the eastern United States and Mexico and blooms from May to August. It is commonly found in areas with ravines, woods, thickets, hillsides, etc. It can creep up surfaces or along the ground. 

Medicinal Uses:

The bark and young shoots of the vine are aperient, alternative, emetic, expectorant, and tonic. They can be decocted to reduce swelling and a tea can be made to use as a diuretic. A wash can be made to use on swellings and poison ivy rashes.

Did You Know:

The Virginia creeper is extremely useful for wildlife by providing food for many animals that feed on the berries, leaves and stems.