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Climber Wall Shrub

Parthenocissus tricuspidata
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

Boston ivy

A very vigorous, self-clinging large deciduous climber. Leaves mostly ovate or three-lobed, turning brilliant crimson and purple in autumn. Flowers inconspicuous; berries dull blue

Other common names
Japanese creeper
Japanese ivy
Synonyms
Vitis inconstans
Ampelopsis hoggii
see moreAmpelopsis tricuspidata
Acer nikoense

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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Green
Autumn Purple Red Blue
Winter
Position
  • Full shade
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Vitaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Climbing
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin irritant - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Parthenocissus are vigorous deciduous climbers with either tendrils or disk-like suckers, and lobed or palmate leaves which often colour brilliantly in autumn. Inconspicuous green flowers are sometimes followed by attractive blue or black berries

Name status

Correct

Plant range
China, Japan

How to grow

Cultivation

For the best autumn colour, site in partial shade or full shade. It thrives in any fertile, well-drained soil

Propagation

Propagate by layering or hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wall side borders
  • Climber and wall shrubs
Pruning

Pruning group 11 in early winter, can also be cut back in summer if need be

Pests

May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and vine weevil

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus

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