Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus) This vigorous climber is a must for people with a big area to fill such as a pergola, an eyesore to cover such as an old shed or a large tree which needs a burst of colour in autumn, when the Virginia creeper's leaves turn a stunning bright red. Many people avoid training it up their house walls because the suction pads it uses to cling on can damage cement and brickwork. One of the most popular varieties is P tricuspidata, whose proper name is Boston Ivy, which can be seen everywhere. The large leaved variety, P quinquefolia can grow up to 40ft high. Parthenocissus needs fertile, free-draining soil and it will thrive in sun or partial shade. It will need some support initially, but will soon become self-clinging.
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