Chinese Virginia Creeper
parthenocissus henryana
Also known as: ["Henry's Virginia Creeper","Five-leaved Ivy"]
Overview
A deciduous climbing vine native to China, known for its attractive foliage that turns vibrant colors in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Vitales |
| Family: | Vitaceae |
| Genus: | Parthenocissus |
| Botanical Name: | Parthenocissus henryana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis, wall, or fence in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on season to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; for indoor plants, place near east or north-facing windows.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid prolonged exposure below 40°F (4°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes, taken from healthy, non-flowering stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of older stems and light shaping of new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; cut just above a bud or node; remove dead/diseased wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the foliage. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow leaves to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), wilting, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest the berries of Parthenocissus henryana. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Parthenocissus henryana can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if consumed in large amounts. The effects are typically not life-threatening but may require veterinary attention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicParthenocissus henryana berries contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Parthenocissus henryana invasive?
A: It can be vigorous but is generally less invasive than other Virginia Creeper species.
Q: Does it require support to climb?
A: Yes, it climbs using adhesive discs and benefits from a support structure.
Q: What are its ideal growing conditions?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun and prefers well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Vitaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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