Scientific name: Parthenocissus tricuspidata
Synonym: Ampelopsis hoggii , Ampelopsis tricuspidata , Vitis inconstans
Family: VITACEAE
Common names: “Boston ivy” “Japanese creeper” ”
Plant Type: Deciduous vine
Conditions:
Zone: 4-8
Light: Full sun – shade, best colour in dappled/light shade
Exposure: Exposed or sheltered
Soil: Any
Moisture: Moist well drained, no wet, drought tolerant once established
Aesthetic:
Plant Size: 30-50′ H & W , vigorous fast grower
Leaf and Stem shape: Mostly ovate or three-lobed leaves, turning brilliant crimson and purple in autumn
Flower: Inconspicuous flowers followed by dull blue berries
Pruning: No regular pruning required but trimming might be necessary to keep them in their space
Maintenance: Medium
Landscape use: Wall-side borders, up fences, groundcover, up buildings
Propagate: By cuttings and layering
Pests & Disease: Generally healthy
Comments: Usually seen growing on buildings, notably famous “Ivy League” universities, however it can seriously damage a houses exterior not to mention the access it gives to rats, appears on invasive species lists in some regions, produces toxic berries
Cultivars: P. t. ‘Veitchii’ ~AGM winner
