Parthenocissus tricuspidata

Boston Ivy
Parthenocissus tricuspidata
Type: Deciduous Vine, Semi-Evergreen in mildest areas
Exposure: Sun or Shade
Water: Regular

Parthenocissus tricuspidata, as well as its brother, P. Cinquefolia (aka Virginia Creeper) are prized for their lush growth and brilliant fall color.

A rampant grower, Boston Ivy is said to grow up and out to 60ft or 18m, but it is really limited only by the size of its support. The vines cling to walls by using tiny suction cups, and should be kept clear of windows, shingles and lap siding. Portions of the vine that has become detached should be removed, as the suction cups will not re-attach. Bright, glossy green, generally three-toothed (hence the tricuspidata name) cloak the vines in a uniform, dense wall of green. These leaves are somewhat variable in shape, but will reach up to 8in (20cm) across. Spectacular fall color ranges from yellow to orange, red and burgundy, generally more varied then the mostly red fall color of Virginia Creeper. The flowers are somewhat insignificant, but are followed by bluish-black fruit which will stay with the vines after the leaves fall, unless the birds get them first.

Fun Fact: Although Boston Ivy is the “ivy” to which “ivy league” refers when talking about schools such as Princeton and Yale, it is not an ivy in the botanical sense. True ivies bear the first name Hedera, not Parthenocissus. No wonder I have trust issues.

Cheers,

John