Indiana Native Plant of the Month - May

Virginia Creeper

May 1, 2025

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 for 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 is a nuisance most times (but so eye-catching in the fall).

Description

Virginia Creeper has a few identifying traits such as:

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.