Chinese Virginia Creeper Proper

Parthenocissus henryana is an elegant and more refined relative of the common Virginia Creeper. It is a self-clinging deciduous climber that uses suction-cup tendrils to attach itself to walls and fences. Its most striking feature is its dark, velvety-bronze foliage, with each leaf being beautifully marked with silver-white and pink veins. While many climbers need sun for colour, this plant actually develops its best leaf markings when grown in a semi-shaded or even fully shaded position; in full sun, the variegation can fade to plain green. In autumn, the foliage turns a spectacular, fiery crimson-red before falling. It is slightly less vigorous and easier to control than other Parthenocissus species, making it a better choice for small to medium-sized gardens. It is hardy in most of the UK but appreciates a site protected from the harshest winter winds. It is an excellent choice for adding vertical interest to a north-facing wall.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Any well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.