indiana native plant of the month - may

Now that things are growing, we should have a lesson about the unnecessarily hated and (probably) most googled plant by accident….

Virginia creeper (parthenocissus quinquefolia)

Virginia creeper is a vine that grows and is often mistaken or poison ivy. The child’s rhyme is “Leaflets three, let it be; leaflets five, let it thrive”. This is a persistent vine that can easily grow and cause damage. Using little suckers to cling to surfaces, this vine isa nuisance most times (but so eye-catching in the fall).

description

Virginia Creeper has a few identifying traits such as:

• Small white or green flowers

• Five leaflets - about 6” in length

• Small blue berries (goo for birds, NOT for you)

• Vibrant red color in the fall

Fun fact - fire hazard

Virginia Creeper is highly flammable and should not be planted near a home. Unless, of course, you like to live dangerously.