boston ivy - Parthenocissus tricuspidata
Common Name: Boston ivy
Scientific Name: Family: Vitaceae Genus: Parthenocissus Species: tricuspidata Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8 Height: 30 to 50 ft Width: 5 to 10 ft Description: With a wide range of soil condition and pollutant tolerances, Boston Ivy is well-suited to its role as a common green accent in urban spaces. As long as it has adequate room to grow, it is likely that Parthenocissus tricuspidata will succeed even in full shade conditions. This Chinese native is a self-supporting tendril climber that can quickly expand across flat surfaces such as stone or brick. It is now widely planted across North America, and is commonly seen as a decorative aspect of buildings. Trimming may be necessary to keep this plant within the desired bounds, but isn't normally needed for the survival of the plant. To identify Boston Ivy look for the small small tendrils attached to flat surfaces and large 3-lobed leaves. Greenish-white flowers will be present in the spring, eventually giving way to blue-black berries that will remain until leaf-drop in the fall. Leaves will turn scarlet red to purple in the fall. References: "Parthenocissus tricuspidata". Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c267. Accessed 20 May 2018. |