The Chinese Virginia creeper, Parthenocissus henryana, is less vigorous than other Virginia creepers, and is therefore better suited to growing in small gardens. It can be useful for covering a north-facing wall, although its autumn colour is more dramatic with a little sun. Leaves are delicate, with a velvety texture and silvery-white veins. In auumn it becomes a fiery crimson, which is complemented by blue-black berries.
Grow Parthenocissus henryana in fertile, well-drained soil in partial shade. It's self-clinging but may need some help to get started, so tie in to netting or trellis until established. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it the Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
Advertisement
Plant calendar
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sow
yes
yes
yes
Plant
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
Flowers
yes
yes
yes
Fruits
yes
yes
Parthenocissus and wildlife
Parthenocissus has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
