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Is this plant a weed?

Virginia Creeper Syn. Woodbine, American Ivy, Parthenocissus quinquefolia L.

Found in:

  • Rich fertile soils of woodlands and woodland edges, over and along fences, and as a groundcover plant
  • Full sun to deep shade

Characteristics:

  • Perennial woody vine
  • Branched tendrils end in sticky disks that act like suction cups and attach to vertical surfaces
  • Leaves have five leaflets and are generally long and toothed
  • Foliage turns bright red in fall
  • Small berry clusters turn blue in fall

Significance

  • Vigorous and aggressive growth
  • Berries have been reported to cause poisoning

Plants that look similar:

  • Englemann Ivy
  • Boston Ivy

More information and control options for Virginia Creeper...

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