Virginia tree creeper ( Parthenocissus quinquefolia ) and English ivy are both popular pick for adding greenery and visual sake to outdoor spaces . However , there are several key differences between these two plants that are worth considering when deciding which one to include in your garden or landscape painting .
1 . Growth Habit : Virginia creeper tends to have a taller and less dense growing habit compared to English ivy . It can grow up to 50 understructure in height , piddle it a great choice for adding erect interest to your garden . On the other hand , English ivy has a low , creeping growth habit and is often used as a groundcover or for climbing walls and fences .
2 . Leaf Shape and Color : Virginia creeper has compound leaves with five leaflet dress in a palmate pattern , standardised to the fingers on a hired hand . The leaves turn a vivacious red or purple color in the fall , tot a stunning display of fall foliage . English ivy , on the other hand , has dour fleeceable , sheeny leaves that are typically lob and have a distinct , somewhat nub - shaped visual aspect .
3 . Type of Vine : Both Virginia tree creeper and English English ivy are climb vines , but they dissent in their attachment methods . Virginia creeper climb by using tendrils with adhesive domiciliation that allow it to stick onto surfaces , including tree , walls , and fences . English common ivy , on the other handwriting , climb by using aerial roots that attach to surfaces , allow it to grow vertically .
4 . Growth Rate : Virginia crawler is know for its vigorous growth charge per unit and can quickly cover large areas . It is considered to be more aggressive than English ivy , so it ’s authoritative to plant it in a location where its spreading nature is not a concern . English ivy , although also a fast grower , is generally less fast-growing and easier to insure .
5 . Seasonal characteristic : One notable difference between these two plant is their seasonal characteristics . Virginia creeper is deciduous , meaning it loses its leaves in the winter , while English ivy is evergreen and retains its leaves year - round . This can be an important factor to conceive depending on the specific look and finger you want to achieve in your garden throughout the season .
6 . Wildlife Attraction : Both Virginia creeper and English Hedera helix provide worthful food and habitat for wildlife . Virginia creeper bring forth clusters of small , colored blue Charles Edward Berry in the fall , which are highly attractive to bird . English ivy also produces small , black Chuck Berry that birds and other wildlife may wipe out .
Virginia creeper and English ivy have clear-cut differences in terms of growth habit , leaf form and color , attachment method , development rate , seasonal characteristics , and wildlife attractor . Consider these factors when choosing between the two to ensure that the industrial plant you select aligns with your specific gardening and landscape gardening goals .
Caroline Bates
