Parthenocissus Species, Virginia Creeper, Engleman Ivy, Five Finger Ivy, Woodbine

On Jun 10, 2018, dwcouch from Knoxville, TN (Zone 7a) wrote:

I'm quite shocked that people actually WANT this vine.

On an acre of 2/3 woods the vine thrives in full sun (the 1/3 without trees). Climbing trees, the house, the deck, the wood pile. It's intermingled with the English Ivy I prefer. And sure enough. It brought it's buddies to the party, Poison Ivy and wild grape.

When we first bough the property I would go through and use a weed wacker to 'skim' the top as I wanted to keep the English Ivy below. Unfortunately after 4 years of that - the Creeper has only become more persistent and healthy.

This year, I'm pulling it. Wearing boots, jeans, long sleeves and rose pruning gloves and a hat. If it has a plus, it's that the vine is sturdy enough that if you can find a primary or even secondary 'branch... read more' you can clear significant areas at a time. My largest pull so far today is about 10 square feet with contiguous vine.

Crazy. I hate this stuff.

On another note if anyone can provide some clarity about the vine vs. the 'shrub' I have the vine everywhere. Though I also have a plant that has red stalks and berries of a blue color. Very different. Are they related?

On Jul 14, 2017, tattoomom2 from Advance, NC wrote:

A further word of caution to everyone regarding this vine. My husband has unfortunately experienced a severe reaction to this vine three times. The first time was two years ago and we thought it was poison ivy, though the itching was much worse and it seemed to last a longer time. The second time he had been pulling Virginia creeper vines from the trees they were strangling on the border of our woods. He wore gloves and a long sleeve shirt, and jeans and boots. The shirt had a hole near the elbow and the jeans a hole above the knee. He got the rash in these specific areas and didn't tell me (I am a doctor, but he doesn't always tell me about "minor" things.) it is VERY hard to resist scratching this rash, as the irritation from the crystals and sap combination is worse than the urushiol oi... read morel from poison ivy or oak. He scratched when he couldn't stand it anymore, which drives the oxalate crystals further into the skin, along with whatever is on your hands. He is a metalworker and mechanic, so he is around dirt and oil all day long and has a hard time keeping his fingernails clean while at work. He started to have areas of redness in the skin surrounding the rash, and weeping of the skin, and swelling. When his leg was swelled up three times its normal size he finally showed me, and we went immediately to the ER where he was admitted to the hospital for IV antibiotics because he had severe cellulitis, which is an infection in the deeper tissue of the skin. This can spread and lead to gangrene, amputation or sepsis (whole body infection with a bacteria.) He was exposed again last week, and now has the severe rash and the beginning of cellulitis again. While I realize that he is obviously one of those people who is very sensitive to Virginia creeper sap, this could happen to anyone who gets it, especially if you work in a job like construction, mechanics or landscaping where the nails and skin can't be kept completely grime-free all the time. I strongly advise that if you have redness and swelling that develop beyond just the skin lesions that look like poison ivy, you get to the doctor asap as you may need antibiotics. Also, I read here that someone had severe swelling around the eyes and mouth, which even without an infection can be very dangerous and might require a corticosteroid injection to prevent throat swelling or eye damage. This stuff can be toxic, so please be careful!

On Oct 10, 2016, booksb4bread from Huntsville, AL wrote:

I have broken out several times over the past four years after removing Virginia creeper at work, but only realized it was the cause this year. When I encountered it, I thought it was poison ivy, but the rash was not quite the same. Each time I have broken out I have a second reaction two or three months later with no additional contact. I am wondering if anyone here has had a similar experience. My theory is that some of the calcium oxalate crystals remain within the skin and after a period of time begin to cause more itching and when scratched, a full reaction occurs. Can anyone confirm this, or explain why a second reaction could occur with no re-exposure?

On Jun 22, 2015, dmcwriter from Centreville, VA wrote:

When I was a young girl, I occasionally got a rash from poison ivy but was never super-sensitive to it. Then when I was about 28, I pulled a Virginia Creeper plant out of my front yard, where it was threatening to climb up our steps. It never occurred to me that it could be toxic. It was a very hot, humid day and I kept brushing the sweat off my face with my bare hands--yes, stupid, I know! A few days later, I broke out into the worst itchy rash I've ever had in my life. It was everywhere that I'd touched my hands to my skin before taking a shower--including all over my face and neck. It took a couple trips to the dermatologist, some meds and about six weeks before it went away. The itching was so maddening, I'd jump into a cold shower at 2am just to get some momentary relief! The pl... read moreant does turn a lovely red in the fall, but just to be on the safe side, don't try pulling it out with your bare hands!

On Apr 13, 2015, coriaceous from ROSLINDALE, MA wrote:

This is a beautiful but aggressive climber. It's native here, so it isn't invasive (harmful to the ecology), but it can be too aggressive for use in a mixed border, and while I like climbers on trees and large shrubs, this isn't one I'd use in a garden.

I don't recommend it for covering a wall, as it won't cover it evenly like Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata). It can be lovely climbing large trees at a woodland edge, or on a fence by itself.

Seeds are spread by birds, which is how seedlings can appear with no mature plants nearby. Seedlings generally have 3 leaflets when very young, and are easily mistaken for poison ivy.

I've handled this plant a lot and I've never had a rash, nor has anyone I've worked with (and I've worked with a lot ... read moreof people). I know this plant contains toxic levels of oxalic acid in the fruits that can be fatal on ingestion, and I understand that some people can develop a nasty rash on skin contact. But I suspect that people who get rashes from contact are in the minority, and that the reports here are not in proportion to the general population.

On Aug 5, 2014, MWBSky from Richmond, MI wrote:

Well, it is pretty but ...
I am a tree lover and I noticed that this vine (which covers my entire hillside) had killed some of my trees near Port Sanilac Michigan.
So, barefoot, barehanded and in shorts I pruned the thicker vines and proceeded to pull it down out of a tree it was killing. I felt justified in interjecting my influence on nature. (still do since I am part of nature too)
A week later I thought I had poison ivy symptoms but it was different.
Calamine just makes the itching worse (as very specifically is pointed out in other posts)
Very itchy blistery rashes are in the tender skin areas (inside of knees and top of feet) but not on hands.
Shower with hot water helps a lot.
I would put this plant in the same category as nettle - a ... read morenuisance.
I do not believe in the word "weed" and I do not believe in chemical weed killers, but I might make an exception for this one in select areas.
Avoid it, but God put it here for some good reasons or it would not be here ;-)

On Jul 6, 2014, MaryArneson from Minneapolis, MN (Zone 4b) wrote:

I hadn't realized that people can have a bad reaction to the oxalate crystals in this vine. I'll be careful when trying to remove it from our house. We had allowed it to cover our north wall, and we enjoyed the lush green summer foliage and the gorgeous red fall colors. What we didn't like is the way it grew out onto the electric wires, requiring professional removal, and the way it clogs the gutters and promotes ice dam formation. It has to go!

On Oct 3, 2013, Daphne36 from Cushing, ME wrote:

OMg (oh my goodness)! I was taken aback by the negative views of this wonderful plant. My disappointment of moving to Maine, semi-rural woods and meadow environment, and not finding Va. creeper, was alleviated when I planted a bit. This is a plant which plays a vital role in nature, if not your yard. It is beautiful, and in the woods or wild margins should not be removed. Invasive? I haven't seen that... invasives that I have seen, honeysuckles, multiflora rose, autumn olive, suburbanites who arrive with a full supply of Round-Up, these worry me. However, anyone who has had an adverse highly-allergic reaction should obviously avoid the "culprit". It's going too far to label such a plant "evil", or suggest that it shouldn't be planted, when it belongs in a way that none of us will, ... read moreever. Plants don't have morals. People should. And common sense. I have had poison ivy infections, and simply avoid the plant. There is no sense in becoming hysterical about its place in Nature. I plant for beauty, to encourage natives and the relationships that have been formed between plants and animals for thousands of years, and to be a witness to it all.

On May 24, 2013, PupillaCharites from Jacksonville, FL (Zone 9a) wrote:

I am reading about various home remedies to treat alleged "allergic" reactions to Virginia Creeper and wanted to give those people who have problems with it something to think about. It is better described as a "Chemical Irritant Contact Dermatitis". This is very different, initially; from allergies to urushiol dermatitis from Poison Ivy which is an organic liquid that gets absorbed into the skin and then systemically causing a global immune response.

You cannot get an allergic reaction touching the leaves of Virginia creeper, or the vine stems unless you directly touch open wounds on it where sap is coming out. So in that sense, if you don't subject it to the Texas Chainsaw massacre, you'll be fine... This is unlike poison ivy in that you barely brush against poison ivy any... read morewhere and the ubiquitous allergen oils start immediately to absorb into your skin.

First, there is confusion with poison ivy, but those who are confused are the ones that think all their fellow gardeners are unable to tell the difference. Poison ivy causes an allergic reaction, but Virginia Creeper would be better described as having chemical spines, like a microscopic cactus. Anyone can be irritated by Virginia Creeper since it is physical damage, not allergy which is more variable of a response. Still, some people have tougher skin though, and are less punctured.

The culprits are the calcium oxalate crystals. What happens is they crystallize out of the sap like micro-spines and imbed in the skin like miniature cactus spines.

Then, after what the plant would consider a hacking vicious attack upon it, people get the rash and try all kinds of home remedies, some equally vicious on their skin. However, the home remedies are almost without exception, terribly exacerbating the situation by *promoting infection and further damage*, although the victims don't know it, you should have left it be. That is initially not an allergy, but you are getting infected on your wound. If you read commentors’ actions, you see someone tried bleach, for example, which further dissolves and damages skin. Calcium oxalate is not soluble in bleach. It is the same chemical as kidney stones, and dissolving kidney stones is near impossible, no good solvents for it.

So on a microscopic level in the skin people are damaging and inflaming skin already with microcrystalline needles in it. Now for the kicker. Although the calcium oxalate broke the skin, many other plant chemicals now go into the breaks caused by the crystals, and these may cause secondary allergic reactions from the sap. This is not specific to Virginia Creeper, and actually could be from other plants, too if you are in a mess of vegetation, weeding for example. If another weed happens to be poison ivy, then you get the double whammy screw - open the skin and the poison ivy concentrate goes directly in *oops! ouch! itch!*

The best protection is not to rub, or use anything except putting it under running water for a long time and just waiting for some of the spine-mineral crystals to wash off. Rubbing will just imbed them in the skin further and other remedies cause further damage and irritation.

Finally after well-irrigated, a gentle application of hydrocortisone only useful and recommended if your skin has developed a terrible rash all on its own (or if you lost the battle by exacerbating it now you can only sit back and suffer the consequences, as now the immune system was forced into reaction after you did all that 'helpful' stuff (which is less likely if you don't rub the crystal needles in).

Hydrocortisone is not to treat the mineral, but rather to numb the immune system (you've lost the battle with the spines) - which you should avoid unless intolerable. The people with severe reactions here have possibly tender skin, higher oxalate concentrations in their Virginia Creeper, or have exacerbated it thinking they were 'treating' it (Do you think application of calydryl or dissolving you skin with Clorox would help a handful of prickly pear cactus micro spines? Same deal here basically.)

Further, hydrocortisone is a two edged sword, since it also stimulates the further breakdown of skin and mucosal parts, which you don't want (for example, ulcer patients avoid the drug)! I wouldn't use even Aloe vera, because even it will introduce some phytochemicals through the broken skin. About the only thing maybe is a little antibiotic ointment, but that's iffy. The damaged skin is now also getting rash from infection since it's filled with micro punctures, so the ointment is good ... but, the ointment will tend to move around the crystalline spines aggravating the injury no matter how careful you are and perhaps make it more difficult for them to fall off on their own for some time. So something not tacky you can irrigate it, maybe aqueous based would be better. I'd go for Bactine spray and consider it like an abrasion, but only after 5-10 minutes under tenderly running water...

Virginia Creeper is only one plant that has calcium oxalate issues, and many bulbs do, and daffodil picker's ("Daffodil Itch") or Lily Rash - all from the same calcium oxalate, which btw, forms in plants for similar reasons in people - ridding or moving excess calcium ;-) Funny there don't seem to be any negatives for them ... Poor Virginia Creeper, native to the SE USA, with such pretty leaves and ability to cool a baking Southern Sun by sucking up all that brutal solar radiance into shade and biomass of such pretty leaves --- getting such a bad rap for this. Maybe its flowers aren't as showy, but the red foliage at the ends of the season is fantastic and woodsy. It deserves more respect IMO. Since calcium oxalate is not an allergen, it only takes the understanding of this hardy native American vine, to exercise basic care not to get splattered with sap. Gloves are extremely helpful, and minor amounts, unlike poison ivy are not going to send your body into an allergic attack.

I know this post won't help much after the fact, but keeping it in mind may reduce or even eliminate your reaction next time.

It could be worse; someone could have put calcium oxalate crystals on your toilet seat. Yes, that is a form of torture ;-(

Best luck!

On May 6, 2013, Jajawakef from Wake Forest, NC wrote:

Also @ bubbleyum. Beware of this plant! I know what poison ivy looks like so when I first encounter Va Creeper/Woodbine I wasnt concerned. It was growing on my fence when I lived in Jax Florida. I did get a itchy rash from it so I used gloves to try and remove it later.
Now we live in NC and bought a house that the previous owners had neglected for a while. Besides fixing up the house the yard had been overgrown w this vine. I wore gloves and was careful but still got such a bad reaction I had to get a steroid shot and take oral meds too.
Thought I had learned my lesson but we tackled our backyard this spring and removed trees, broken limbs, and mulched about 3 years of leaves. Our new puppy found this woodyvine growing up a tree and started to pull it off the tree (big pupp... read morey and quite strong). I helped him finish pulling it and to my surprise it had grown all the way to the top of the tree and when it fell it landed on my face. Woe to me it was the dreaded Virginia Creeper vine and a very old one too. Needless to say I have an even worse reaction this time- it looks like acid was thrown on me. Both arms, my neck, some of my stomache and my face are all bright red, itchy, burning, and have bumps. Not the poison ivy or sumac type weepy rash (thank goodness) but an exptremely painful and uncomfortable one. I am heading to the doctor today, cant even wait this one out. I would say if you react to this plant it does look like additional exposures cause a worse, more aggravated rash than previous exposures.
I think someone should have another look at this plant and classify it as "extremely dangerous" for persons sensitive to it!
PS This vine may have its place in nature, but it DOES cause serious illness for some of us and should be handled with caution. Its so silly to read peoples comments who insist that its not this plant that causes severe dermatitis, its poison ivy. Ivy rash is totally diff, ivy looks different, and some of us, believe it or not actually know what poison ivy looks like and for that matter all the rash inducing plants-like sumac and poison oak. Unfortunately VaCreeper/Woodbine is a cool looking plant with the capability of causing extreme skin rashes and allergic reactions for some folks! Looks like more than less too is we just go by this site alone.

On Aug 9, 2012, cuthugas from Despard, WV wrote:

@ Bubble Yum

Sorry to tell you, but there are people who are in fact very allergic to this plant.

I have lived at my house for 10 years. This vine, along with English Ivy grow on my porch. There is no Poison Ivy whatsoever on my property.

I break out in burning itching hives, unlike the rash I get from Poison Ivy.

So, don't spout out that people are wrong just because you are not allergic to this thing.

On Jul 8, 2012, justsaynotovacreeper from Moultrie, GA wrote:

MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR VIRGINIA CREEPER EXPOSURE

PLEASE LET MY BAD EXPERIENCE HELP YOU!

Let me tell you the treatment that worked for me and then I will tell you of my experience with Virginia Creeper.

If you experience a bad reaction to virginia creeper (mine set in within 32 hours of exposure) call or go to your doctor immediately. I broke out in painful itchy hives from head to toe.

I was given a weeks Rx for prednisone 20 mg and Hydroxyzine HCL 25 mg for itching. My doctor had me take a triple dose of the predisone for a first dose and 2 tabs daily thereafter. Within 12 hours of the the first triple dose the hives disappeared. Within 2 hours of taking the hydroxzine the itching was ok. The second day I was back to normal.<... read morebr />
I pulled one large vine of virginia creeper off our wooden fence with my bare hands. I was wearing flip flops, shorts and a t-shirt. It was hot and I was wiping the sweat away constantly picking up pine cones.

Previously I have pulled this stuff for years without problem. Then a couple of years ago I volunteered at church clean up day and pulled a pile of this stuff wearing gloves. Two days later I was on vacation in Aruba and broke out the same as this time. I thought I had been exposed to poison ivy so I bought some calamine lotion and self treated. After we got home from a miserable week (sorry Aruba it wasn't your fault) I went to my doctor but the above treatment didn't help as quickly. GET TREATMENT QUICK!

On Jun 23, 2012, Sandwichkatexan from Copperas Cove, TX wrote:

It was growing wild on the empty acres next to us , It has now spread everywhere . it pops up in my flowerbeds but I still pull it up everytime I see it . It is quite an annoyance .

On Jun 3, 2012, bonnigrrl from Lakewood Park, FL wrote:

Virginia Creeper is distinct. It is not Poison Ivy. It is worse.
It is long lasting and scars and extremely uncomfortable. The smoke can damage lungs. Pull out the root.

On May 15, 2012, ladyangel4 from Round Hill, VA wrote:

Simply brushing against this plant (and Trumpet creeper which also has the crystals) and then washing with Dawn soap/cold water as a precaution is fine in my experience. After reading so many stories, it's clear breaking the vines and leaves by weeding and pulling CAN be DANGEROUS, releasing those crystals.

From a medical treatment page, "No specific antidote or clinically useful diagnostic test exists for calcium oxalate rash, eye exposure, or ingestion."

Note: burning or breaking up DEAD plants that contain these crystals can ALSO cause irritation; be careful!

Also noting studies on poison ivy/oak and it's ability to propagate subspecies and noticing our recent "crop" of VA Creeper has very waxy looking leaves, I am *suspicious* that we MAY b... read moree dealing with a NEW subspecies of Virginia Creeper that is much more noxious than its predecessor. Most especially wild vs. cultivated.

It's possible that not ALL Virginia Creeper is equal! Good luck from former Biologist o/

On Apr 18, 2012, vossner from Richmond, TX (Zone 9a) wrote:

not a problem in my garden, but I yank it the second I see it.

On Apr 15, 2012, ellis9899 from Lexington, SC wrote:

While Virginia Creeper is often confused with poison ivy, this does not mean someone with a rash from 'weeding' is confused where they got it from! I just bought a new home with established landscaping that has been neglected for about 2 years. The wooded areas of the lot had both poison ivy and Virginia creeper and the garage door was covered by VC. While I was aware of the oils in poison ivy (which I already knew I was highly allergic to) I have never heard of anything about a reaction from Virginia creeper.

Before weeding, I did cover what I thought was appropriately but it started to rain and I wanted to finish weeding. I went in, took all clothes off and washed them in hot water, showered with Dawn, and used new linens. But it was too late. I either was not carefu... read morel enough or the rain helped the poisons soak in.

Here's the interesting part, I have two different rashes now. The first rash is the typical poison ivy rash with little raised blisters that itch and ooze. They are mainly on my wrists and ankles. Benadryl and calamine help but it still itches some of course. It was in full course within 24 hours. The second rash started in little spots on my arms and legs. It looks more like hives and the areas are red, raised and burn like a chemical burn. It has been 5 days now and the poison ivy rash is starting to disappear while this rash is only continuing to seep out on my arms and legs and gets worse by the day. It is very painful to me and itches ten times worse for me than the poison ivy (yes it itches that bad but burns at the same time).

I went to the doctor today as I realize for the first time, this hives like burning/itching is NOT a poison ivy rash and using the typical poison ivy reliefs of calamine, Benadryl, oatmeal baths, etc do not work on me. So I got a steroid shot and some orals that I hope will help!

My point is that the doctor knew immediately what the rash was from before I even said what I thought I got it from (thanks to this site). She said most people in this area (midlands of SC) where it grows rapidly and hartily (yes it can be beautiful to the eyes) are not allergic but those who are generally develop a slow creeping rash that can burn and itch. They look like hives and generally do not ooze but can. The raised areas are general bright red and in large patches versus poison ivy which is generally little raised blisters that itch but don't usually burn.

So just because someone gets a rash from weeding doesn't mean it's from poison ivy. My kids and husband pulled tons of the Virginia creeper off the side of the garage and none of them got this rash but my daughter did get poison ivy. My son and husband have never had any reaction and my husband's whole family has always been immune to any of these type plants. Regardless my husband plans to wage war this week to ensure there is no more VC on our lot so I can go back outside and enjoy our new home.

Has anyone else had this type of chemical burn type reaction to VC or am I the most allergic, unlucky person in the world? :) (I say as I feel like peeling my skin off it hurts and itches so bad right now)

On Feb 10, 2012, BubbleYum from Feasterville-Trevose, PA wrote:

Virginia Creeper is nativie to North Americia & it’s vital to wildlife (birds etc) as a food with its berries. Also an FYI, the sheer ignorance with negative comments is really shameful. Virginia Creeper can be weedy in some areas, this is very true. Total brush killer can help remove it if you have this problem where you live/work. But people are mixing this plant up with Poison Ivy as it often grows mixed in with the Poison Ivy. Or some people just mis-identify the vine all together. This is why people get rashes, as they are being exposed to Poison Ivy. Again, most people that come onto blogs mean well, as they just want to get the information out. But unfortunately here, people are unknowingly misrepresenting the facts. True...

On Nov 30, 2011, ZapCreeper from Peoria, IL wrote:

Virginia Creeper is responsible for my skin rash that has been spreading and is unbearably itchy.

It started 17 days ago after doing some gardening and weeding at our recently purchased home. An inquiry with a local landscaper had already determined that the plant that we were pulling out was "harmless" Virginia Creeper, with no poison ivy in that location. That is why I didn't worry too much.

The reaction started as a red bump on my left wrist just above the cuff of my gardening gloves a couple of days after contact. It looked like a hive or bug bite and developed itchy weeping bubbly blisters. The area and the itchiness grew rapidly, even though I took precautions to clean the area thoroughly with rubbing alcohol and to wrap it in gauze. My husband and ... read morenext door neighbor also reacted to what we thought was poison ivy.

I tried washing it with alcohol, vinegar, alcohol and vinegar, and during the second weekend, bleach. The bleach relieved the itching and seemed to dry out some of the blisters. I used compresses with Domboro solution (my husband's doctor recommended this); cortisone cream; and Caladryl, none of which relieved the intense itching. Technu cleanser, which works on poison ivy, didn't even faze this outbreak.

After the first week, blisters spread to my right wrist and up both arms. This was with no further contact with the plants outside; and diligent washing of clothes and bedding using bleach and detergent. I covered the affected skin with gauze, tape, and band aids, since it seeped yellowish ooze. During the second week, it started to spread to my face and legs. It acted like a systemic infection such as shingles.

I started taking Benadryl every 4 hours and using ice packs which did help. Patting the rash with Milk of Magnesia relieved the itching for a short time. Another sufferer reported that Clobetasol propionate gel 0.05% - 60 gm 60 gm 60 gm (Generic Temovate Gel) works. I have found some relief from OTC Calagel.

After two weeks, I went to the doctor's office with an oozing raw rash on both forearms, my left leg, and my chin. The itching was driving me crazy and other allergies that had not caused difficulty recently had re-commenced. I had trouble with asthma, hives, and swelling. The doctor gave me an injection of 90 mg of Kenalog, a cortisone that is often given in 40 mg injections. She also prescribed Silvadine ointment since part of my arms looked like a third degree burn. I rushed home to put it on my bright red blistered and seeping arms. I am taking enough Benedryl to stun an elephant. My arms are swathed in gauze and I look a lot like "the Mummy". It has been two and a half weeks of misery so far.

I can not imagine anyone thinking that propagating and spreading this noxious plant is a good idea. I have had previous experience with poison ivy, which is not even in the same category of irritation for me. I wonder whether some new super irritating variety of the Creeper has developed; or if people have assumed that any rash of this sort is poison ivy. Even though not everyone is sensitive to it, I don't know many people who plant poison ivy intentionally. Zap the Creeper.

On Jul 29, 2011, Phone_Guy from Bridgeport, MI wrote:

My wife was cleaning out an overgrown flower bed and ,unknown to her, there was Virginia Creeper vine in among the tall weeds she was pulling out. She knows well enough that we have poison ivy around our house but we knew nothing about virginia creeper. She had a delayed reaction to it. A day later she started breaking out in red marks and then they turned to raised blisters. Because she was in shorts, tanktop and sneakers the blisters are everywhere. We found information on this site to scrub with Dawn dish soap and bathe in baking soda and white vinegar but this has not resolved the red rash. It has dried up the blisters. That was 5 days ago. It is dried up but refuses to heal. She is going to Redi Med this afternoon. We will be vigilant at destroying this plant from here on!

On Jul 20, 2011, jolynn76 from Saint Marys, WV wrote:

I have never, never been allergic to poison ivy. I raised 3 children in the Mid-Ohio Valley region of West Virginia, and treated them many times for poison ivy exposure--washing them, washing their clothes--and never had a problem.

We have lived in our present home for 12 years. We have always had what I now realize is Virginia Creeper. I knew it wasn't poison ivy or any of it's cousins because it did not have 3 leaves. And since I didn't really want it--or anything else--growing up the side of my house, I have pulled it up at least once a year, with no adverse reactions.

This year, I have broken out twice with a rash after working in the yard. The first time, the rash was on my arm, with a spot on my face. I could not figure out what I'd gotten into t... read morehat was any different from any other year, but I went to the Dr. anyway. They said it was some kind of contact dermatitis, but that it did not look like poison ivy. I was treated with steroids, and it did help.

A few days ago, I noticed some Virginia Creeper growing next to the back door. I pulled it up.
Two days ago, I woke up with an itchy arm and a tingling near the corner of my mouth. Thinking the itchy arm was a bug bite and that the tingling near my mouth was a developing cold sore, I did not connect the two. As the day wore on, I began to notice a rash spreading across my face. My arm also began developing itchy spots.
Yesterday, I woke up with a bright red, splotchy rash across the entire lower half of my face. My upper lip was swollen. The Dr. gave me a shot and I have to go another round of steroids.
One thing I noticed this time is that when the rash on my face began to weep, the exudate was crystalline that was yellowish in color. And both times, the rash on my face was worse than the one on my arm.

I am quite miserable and will never, ever touch this stuff again. I'll go the weed killer and gloves route from now on. And I add my voice to the chorus of those who say that I am NOT confusing it with poison ivy. If you are not allergic to this stuff, I certainly understand why you might want to plant it, as it can be decorative. But I'd use some preventative measures when dealing with it. As I mentioned before, I pulled it with abandon for 11 years and never had a problem until now.

On Jul 3, 2011, glendad from Mohnton, PA wrote:

Please please think twice about planting Virginia creeper. It is a pretty ground cover, but it can also be highly invasive and very painful for people who are allergic to it. This summer Virginia creeper got in to the rock pile the dog play area. It grew quickly. Before I had a chance to get it out of the area I found a spot on my legs cover in red blisters where the dog laid his head. Not quite sure what was happening I check the play area and the only vine I found was the Virginia Creeper. The dog of course by that time had rubbed his body on my legs. I gave him a bath and now have it on my wrists. In the process of pulling it out i got more blisters on my ankles. Not fun.
I don't believe that as many people are allergic to this plant as poison ivy. I can pull poison i... read morevy out with my bare hands and not have any problems but this five leaf plant has me in misery.

On Jun 22, 2011, smokindog from SYBERTSVILLE, PA wrote:

I will agree with all those who say this is a beautiful plant. Does little to no damage to vertical surfaces although it can harm other plants. The fall colors are gorgeous.
So here is why the negative. First of all some quick background. I am 47 years old, was a boy scout, my father was a scoutmaster for years. (from scouts)"Leaflets 3, let it be....berries white, poisonous sight." I lived in rural areas all my life. None of this make me an expert on Virginia Creeper. When I was 5 I got a case of poison ivy from chasing foul balls into a treeline. I was covered from ankles to mid thigh, not with a slight rash, but an extreme rash with many pus filled blisters. I could go into more very painful details, but suffice it to say, it was not a good week. Once I cleared up my dad... read more made sure I knew what poison ivy, oak, and sumac looked like. In my youth, every spring I would get a shot to help me through the season. Fast forward to last year. I was cleaning out some vines by my house, sure enough, a couple days later, bam, I was covered. How could I be so stupid, I know what ivy looks like, how did I screw up. I know I looked at every leaf I touched.
Today, I cleared again. I made double sure of everything close to my body. Even though I was covered, and made sure I didnt touch any triplets, I guarantee, I am gonna get skunked.
Moral of the story, some of us do know what poison looks like. Get off your high horse and please don't think all of us uber sensitive folks are idots. (steps off soapbox)

On May 24, 2011, laura93 from Chesapeake, VA wrote:

Stay away from Virginia Creeper!!! We moved to southeastern Virginia about 3 years ago, and have battled with creeper since we moved in. It is much like poison ivy, but instead of oils it has crystals. It causes a severe rash, though probably not to everyone (for example, I can roll in poison ivy and it won't affect me, but this stuff...). My daughter has missed school for a week now because she was exposed to creeper and has a severe itchy rash all over her arms, hands and face, and her face is terribly swollen. Each member of our family that has been exposed to it has had severe reactions - the effects take weeks to get rid of. It's not worth it - stay away from Virginia Creeper!

On May 22, 2011, karate626 from Laurel, MD wrote:

While this does spread fast I love it! I think it looks beautiful and it is native. It has amazing Autumn colours! Looks great in my yard! Not to hard for me to control.

On May 17, 2011, bctiii from Mount Holly, NC wrote:

Bad!!! Bad!!! Weed What ever you do not plant it, the birds will do it for you. I have been pulling it off everything and out of everything all my life.

On May 17, 2011, esteve59 from Annapolis, MD wrote:

I know so far there is 83 negatives,,,,I might as well join in,,,,,
There is no need to buy it,,,,I have never planted it yet I have to pull it up everwhere all summer long,,,,,what fool would pay for this,,,,,
To me it is more like crabgrass,,,,,,

On May 16, 2011, horsefethers from Calgary, Alberta,
Canada wrote:

Virginia Creeper is not native to our region (just north of the border and east of the Rockies) but grows well and is used as a cover for many areas..verandas, fences, fireplaces, etc. The only thing I don't like about it is the leaf hoppers that infest it from time to time and make it very unattractive. I think some people have misidentified their vines.

On May 16, 2011, Munga from Weatherford, TX wrote:

Virginia Creeper grows wild and invasive here in my neck of the woods. I've never had a reaction to it and I have the most sensitive skin on the planet. I'm not taking any chances though, I will always use gloves when dealing with it. My complaint is its invasiveness. I work very hard at keeping my yard pretty. I love shade gardening and my backyard is the perfect backdrop for my passion. However, Virginia Creeper pops up in all of my flower beds. One of my neighbors refuses to control it and it threatens to take over my yard every year.
I have pulled several vines that were as big around as my wrist... but still it keeps coming. I can't imagine anyone wanting this in a residential area. Please consider your neighbors before purchasing this plant.

On Feb 26, 2011, PlantFanatic56 from Bridger, MT wrote:

I know this plant is a vigorous grower, but its truly a beautiful plant, especially in fall when it turns a scarlet red. I think its bad reputation is undeserved. Just keep it trimmed and weed the seedlings like you would anyways and its pretty tame in my neck of the woods. And it provides great shade. And I'd never heard of anyone having a reaction to this plant until I read the comments, no one I know has had a reaction.

On Sep 24, 2010, LizRobbins from Boerne, TX (Zone 8b) wrote:

I think VC is fantastic, a lush dark green vine that loves to climb trees and provides great red/yellow Fall color.

On Sep 20, 2010, themikeman from Concord, NC (Zone 7a) wrote:

Always thought this vine which covers my 80 ft tall white oakes in the back of my farm property in rural NC was poison oak vine...too bad it's not because the rash you can get from this stuff along with burning eyes and itching and fever even when cutting it while wearing gloves and a face mask!!! is much worse and longer lasting then poison oak if you are allergic to it{me}; and it is much more invasive as it can coat trees over 150 feet tall and kill them after about 20 years from lack of sunlight and strangulation..looks pretty in the summer like something you'd see in a steaming tropical rainforest..but BEWARE..stay away from this stuff even with gloves on!!!

On Jul 28, 2010, LakePlacidFL from Lake Placid, FL wrote:

Okay, to all of you who say the people “complaining” about rashes from this are mistaking poison ivy for creeper, you are completely, totally incorrect. This plant can be maddening to many people (more than you’d guess). In fact, many cases of poison ivy are actually creeper rashes – just look at many here saying they thought they had ivy, but figured out it was creeper (ivy is the “easy” diagnoses).

My wife always got a bad reaction for the stuff , but I never did. So, I would (bare handed) pull the vines out like crazy a couple times per year when they go to be too much in one section of our Florida Jungle. I too like the looks of them – especially the red in fall - and so I let them go pretty long sometimes before I’d do a little trimming, and they REALLY grow!).
... read more
Well, finally, I had my comeuppance. They were getting a bit unruly a couple weeks ago, and she started complaining (she is SCARED of these things, especially after her last rash – and a trip to the doc for shots and 2 entire “sets” – treatments - of pills).

I went out and grabbed handfulls. At one point, I wrapped a vine around my wrist and pulled so hard to rip it out, it lefts a red “line” across my hand/wrist.

Well, my wrist (exactly where I wrapped it), arm, legs chest (I was in shorts with no shirt on) all got patches of the bubbly rash my wife had a few times.

I did some research and one can be “immune” for years, then, suddenly – boom1 (Me!). It can build up in your system then cause a reaction.

I have had the rash for almost 2 weeks now. I don’t think it’s as bad as poison ivy, but not real nice!

So, I’ll be carefully removing the stuff form MY yard … not shirtless, in shorts, with no gloves, however…

On Jun 24, 2010, satkins from (Zone 6a) wrote:

I can't believe people intentionally plant this impossibly invasive vine. It does turn kind of a pretty red in the fall. That said, I have spent countless hours trying to remove this weed from the yard/bushes/trees/lawns of several houses in the SLC area in which I have lived since childhood. Beware if you plant this: it will creep into neighbor's yards and it is very, very hard to get rid of if not wanted ( zone 5/6 here).

On Jun 20, 2010, nykilane from Baton Rouge, LA wrote:

Is is a beautiful plant? ABSOLUTELY. Is it good for the environment? SURE IT IS. Do I want to have it my yard? NO.

After 2 rounds of what my doctor diagnosed as Poison Oak or Ivy (which I never would have questioned had the treatment worked, or if I would have had either in my yard) I think I might have found the culprit. I haven't had much trouble with it being invasive, only one vine on the house that I pulled down, one in a ligustrum tree, and a few babies every now and again in the flower bed, but the reprocussions of me going anywhere near this are much too painful and aggravating. I will touch this vine only one more time, and that will be when I take it to the doctor, and be tested so I know for sure.

On Jun 10, 2010, adiapalic from Spartanburg, SC wrote:

plantnation has a point about respecting ecosystems and plants in their natural environment. I try and live by this sentiment by not unnaturally altering my property with bulldozers. I live on 14 acres in upstate South Carolina, and I'd hazard a guess that about 80%+ of that land is running wild. I'll let Virginia Creeper grow wherever it wants down in that area, but when it creeps into my gardening areas in the yard where I come in contact with soil and roots, it has to be removed.

I liken this to what I do about snakes that wander in my yard. I have dogs that spend time outside in a fence during the day for fresh air, and some free range chickens. The snakes have to be removed, gently of course. I catch them, put them in a bucket and relocate them down in the woods.
... read more>
Heck, I might transplant Virginia Creeper somewhere in the woods if I weren't so ridiculously allergic to it.

On May 28, 2010, trflan from Horseshoe Bay , TX (Zone 8b) wrote:

WARNING. Last summer I posted the below description of Virginia Creeper and mentioned that it was growing on our aviary. We had about 20 cockatiels and now we're down to 8. At first we thought it was our unusually hot summer and unusually cold winter but then I read the following.....
"Birds may have a particularly fatal reaction if they ingest the berries or leaves of Virginia creeper, which can cause renal failure, diarrhea with possible blood, vomiting, dilated pupils, seizures, paralysis and lack of urination. However, berries are safe for fruit birds, including warblers, woodpeckers, finches, mockingbirds and chickadees, among others."
*********************************
We've had no problem with itching. This plant grows on one fence mixed in with trumpet vine ... read moreand on a large aviary. It looks great on the aviary and helps shade the birds.
I will say that it is invasive, though, because no one in the neighborhood planted it and it's popped up and spread in at least 4 yards on our block just in the past 2 years. Ours is in a contained area that won't let it spread to a garden.

On May 17, 2010, descoladavirus from Lexington, KY wrote:

Virginia creeper plant grows along the sides of my house and garage, had to remove because spiders were using it as a stair to get in windowsills and creeping everyone out.

Unfortuneately I'm one of the select few people who suffers from an allergic reaction to this plant, and since i was pulling 5-10 feet of it off a wall I soon began suffering an allergic reaction (light itching) within 4 hours. 24 hours later I'm blistering.

Be careful if you move onto a property with virginia creeper, you might be allergic and it can indeed cause one hell of a rash. If you're worried about a rash when handling/removing it from a wall, wear gloves, long sleeves, and safety glasses.

On Mar 26, 2010, plant_tender from De Pere, WI wrote:

When we first purchased our property, we had this vine growing up one of our 50' tall trees, on the edge of our pond. It looked sort of neat ... like a jungle plant, with thick 1" vines, etc., so initially, we left it grow. It wasn't too long before we realized this plant was dangerously invasive & nearly impossible to kill off, even by spot treating it with round-up. It pops up underground, many feet away from the main plant & seeks to choke out any & every; tree, bush, plant, which it can climb up on. It tends to sprout up, from under ground, right near the roots, or trunk of any other; tree, bush, plant, ... making it very risky to treat it with round-up. Year after year it more vigorously returned. The hopes of destroying it seemed an impossible venture, ... until we learned ...
... read more Vines, or any type plant which has a vining nature, tends to NOT like excessive acidity. Hence, to kill an invasive vine, use straight cheap white *Vinegar*. 'Feed' it to the thirsty; roots, stems, leaves. Diligently repeat as necessary, don't give up! It severely damages, & often kills vining type plants, even faster than round-up. Used in conjunction with round-up, it may work even better, especially when applied on a hot sunny day.
Once we began diligently using vinegar, (sometimes mixed with a little round-up) ... this invader was completely dead within 2 summer seasons, after over 10 years of previously failed efforts. (The only positive comment we can make about this plant/vine, is that it looks impressively 'jungle-like', in non-jungle zones/climates, & the dead vines make neat wreaths, ... although the fight to protect ones other plants, etc., is not worth the risk of allowing this vine to freely grow, & so like all invasives, it is best appreciated as a controlled container plant).

On Jul 21, 2009, weeddigger from Cincinnati, OH wrote:

This plant is in several areas of my backyard. I tried to clean it up three weeks ago, tearing it out with my gloved hands. I got a terrible rash all over my legs. It looked like a second degree burn; very red and itchy with blisters that would burst and leak down my leg. I went to the doctor and he said it was the worse case he had seen in three years. He wouldn't even touch it. Steroids, benedryl, and cold compresses of epsom salt water helped dry it out, but it set off a chain reaction in my body that I'm still fighting; hives, swelling of the tongue, throat, lips, around the eyes, cheeks, etc. I guess I learned about this plant the hard way.

On Jun 27, 2009, plantnation from Kalispell, MT wrote:

I have always loved Virginia Creeper. My uncle has it festooning the wide porch on the front of his house. It cascades in the most graceful way, and burns with that beautiful red in the fall. I have never in all my life known of anyone having a reaction to it until I read the comments on this site.

I live in the Rocky Mountain region and Virginia Creeper does not get out of control here.

When people talk about "tearing the vine out" I wonder if they are correctly identifying this plant. Virginia Creeper is a woody plant, with bark. If it is smothering a tree, you can sever its "trunk" like you would with a tree.

Virgina Creeper is native to much of the eastern half of the United States and southern Canada. As a native plant it evolved w... read moreith all the other native species of its region. This means that it belongs here and has a vital role within our ecosystems. It is very different from an exotic species that has no place in the American ecosystems, and also no natural controls, like kudzu, or where I live, spotted knapweed.

If I am allergic to bees or peanuts, it doesn't make bees or peanuts evil. It doesn't mean bees or peanuts should be eradicated. It just means that I should stay away from them. Bees, as pollinators, are essential to our food supply. Peanuts are a very valuable food source for those who are not allergic. That's how I see Virginia Creeper. It is very important as a link in the chain of life in its native environment. It is valuable as a landscape plant for the beauty it provides, and its hardiness. It is valuable to many wildlife species as food and shelter. Indians used it medicinally. If a person is allergic, by all means avoid it, realizing that doesn't make it a "bad" plant.

On May 13, 2009, DenverJude from Denver, CO (Zone 5b) wrote:

I love this plant.
We had it growing all over the house were were renting several years ago. It was gorgeous! A light pruning twice yearly (late spring & early fall) was all it took to shape it and keep it in bounds. It doesn't need any additional irrigation which is a bonus here in parched Denver. The fall color is spectacular and the birds like the fruit. Now that we have a house of our own, I plan to plant this along our fence.

On Apr 12, 2009, renwings from Sultan, WA (Zone 8a) wrote:

"Raphide crystals of calcium oxalate have been reported in the leaves and berries of Virginia creeper. Fuller and McClintock (1986) stated that the quantities are small and that the irritant effect is usually not significant."

I grew up with this plant growing over our back fence. I never saw anyone have a negative reaction to handling it, as we cut it back and played with it regularly.
I think gardens who are having severe reactions are already sensitive to or confused it with poison ivy. They do look similar. The young leaves of VC may only appear to have 3 leaves.

This is a good plant for a difficult location given plenty of space. It is lovely is the summer and fall and a quick grower.

On Jan 10, 2009, pyecombe from Laurel, DE wrote:

I can't believe that companies actually sell this plant. It is an invasive weed. It grows in Delaware naturally. I walked my woods last year and found a 20 foot by 20 foot area that had been almost totally covered by this stuff, it had even grown up all the trees more than 10 feet high. It is almost as bad as kudzu. Do not add this to your garden, you will be sorry.

On Sep 7, 2008, SteveS from New Carlisle, IN (Zone 5a) wrote:

I can't believe how much this plant is confused with poison ivy!

VC is indigenous to most of the forests in the midwest, and I've yet to see a native forest area that was killed or strangled by VC.

On Jul 14, 2008, MtnGardener from Longmont, CO (Zone 5a) wrote:

Many thanks to all that have posted how hardy this plant is. I'm trying to cover 900' of fence where there is no shade and everything else that's been planted has died from the terrible drying wind during the winter. We routinely get 60mph gusts and sustained winds of 35mph. So far it's survived being planted then immediately subjected to 100 degree temperatures. I'll report back in the fall if it survives.

On Jun 30, 2008, Sansevieria from Orangeburg, NY (Zone 6a) wrote:

Virginia Creeper (lives in zones 2b-3 thru 9) is a North American native for walls, fences, etc that need cover-up. It is one of the few plants that will not damage bricks. It also makes a great bonsai and is readily available from local garden and plant nurseries. There is also a variegated version of this plant called Star Showers.

Virginia Creeper has colorful red/burgundy foliage and berries during the fall. It is more ordinary in appearance during the summer and its flowers are not too showy. The foliage of this woody vine can be rather variable in appearance; some vines produce rather broad leaflets with blunt tips, while others produce more slender leaflets with long tips.

You often see this plant growing up tall old trees and also at many college ca... read morempuses. It gives the appearance of age "old world" to many buildings. I remember at Rutgers University in NJ, many students used to take cuttings and grow these as houseplants. I understand in some parts of the U.S. it can be invasive, but in the northeast it is native. I would recommend this plant to anyone that enjoys fall color.

Virginia Creeper has a few different varieties available today. One variety seen often is called Engelmannii, it has smaller leaves and has a better climbing habit that the species growing wild. I have read this variety is named after someone named George Engelmann. George Engelmann was an American botanist who passed away back in 1884.

Virginia Creeper is often confused with eastern Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). There is a clear distinction between the two species; Poison Ivy has three leaflets and Virginia Creeper has five leaflets. Info on the internet sometimes suggests that Virginia Creeper is not poisonous, but the sap of the Virginia Creeper contains oxalate crystals and can cause skin irritation and rashes in small percent of people. Also note, Virginia Creeper DOES NOT contain Urushiol Oil like Poison Ivy. If you get a rash from touching Virginia Creeper it is probably because there was poison ivy growing along with it.

The berries of the Virginia Creeper are eaten by many wild animals such as mice, skunks, chipmunks, squirrels, turtles etc. I have read that cattle and deer will eat the leaves and stems of this plant. The vines themselves provide birds with shelter, perches, nesting places, and food.

Known varieties as follows : P. quinquefolia (American Ivy) P. quinquefolia 'Dark Green Ice' P. quinquefolia 'Guy's Garnet' P. quinquefolia 'Monham' (Star Showers® Virginia Creeper) P. quinquefolia 'Star Showers' (Variegated Virginia Creeper) P. quinquefolia 'Variegata' (Variegated Virginia Creeper) P. quinquefolia f. engelmannii P. quinquefolia f. hirsuta P. quinquefolia f. macrophylla P. quinquefolia f. minor P. quinquefolia var. engelmannii P. quinquefolia var. heptaphylla P. quinquefolia var. laciniata P. quinquefolia var. latifolia P. quinquefolia var. minor P. quinquefolia var. quinquefolia P. quinquefolia var. saint-paulii P. quinquefolia var. typica P. quinquefolia var. vitacea (American Ivy)

On Jun 22, 2008, gobabysistergo from Granby, CT wrote:

Virginia Creeper... so THAT'S what this stuff is... This plant is everywhere in my back yard and, boy, does this site explain a lot! Like another person shared, I'm in my mid 40's & had never had Poison Ivy in my life... I bought my beautiful little cottage in the CT woods last year & just started really "reclaiming" my back yard this season. I was pulling this "mystery vine" off of some of my trees & got, what I thought was, my first case of Poison Ivy. I had, after all, gotten several scratches which had broken the skin. Thankfully, I didn't have the nightmare rash some of you have described, but it still wasn't very pleasant! This vine is killing my trees & is taking over! But I don't back down very easily, myself... I'll use some of the tips I've gotten here today & keep at it! ... read more

I do have a helpful hint that a professional gardening friend of mine gave to me. The second I come indoors, be it from mowing my lawn or a full blown weed whacking adventure, I get out of my dirty clothes (being careful not to touch anything) & immediately shower from head to toe with Dawn dishwashing liquid. I even wash my hair with it! My friend says that the "grease cutters" in the Dawn cut the oils from the plants. I do this EVERY time I'm outside gardening, hiking, whatever. I am happy to report that I haven't had ANY rashes since. Not one! I can't promise younger looking skin, but it sure keeps the rashes away! I hope this works for you as well as it has worked for me.

Thanks! This site is AWESOME!

On Jun 1, 2008, jleigh from Ballston Lake, NY (Zone 5a) wrote:

PLANT AT YOUR OWN RISK. I can not stress that enough.

I would not mind this plant growing rampant in the back of my property. It would add a little foliage to the lot of trees that don't have branches below 30'.
But this monster keeps invading my garden plot and flowerbeds. It even managed to choke out the wild blackberries and 10 year old wintercreeper.

I have found myself to be quite allergic to this. I have tried everything when removing it. (short of full riot gear that is) and each time I end up carrying around a bottle of aloe gel for a week.
For those of you who get a rash from this plant I recommend the aloe gel. You can buy it at the drug store, or any place that sells sunblock. But make sure to buy the stuff with LIDOCAINE in the ingre... read moredients list. It usually has menthol in it too, so it will cool and soothe. For added soothing, keep some in the fridge. Works great on sunburns too.

On May 7, 2008, tamee79 from Marion, SC wrote:

I am so so glad to have found this website. Each year I end up in the doctor's office begging for a shot. That should tell you how bad it is. Like others have said on here, no one believed me when I would point to VC and say "that's it! that's what makes me have these reactions".
Finally, I have vindication. It grows on my house in the Pee Dee area of South Carolina and the midlands at my mom's house.
Thank You!!!!

On Dec 20, 2007, Fledgeling from Huron, SD wrote:

This is one of the few species of vines, other than the rare grape, that grow out here. Of the two this is the more attractive by far, and will be planting it to cover my chain-link fence next spring. This native species is not a problem in the area.

On Oct 23, 2007, Dotsy1 from Steamboat Springs, CO wrote:

I LOVE this plant! The spacing of the leaf sets on the stems doesn't obscure a wall like some vines do.

My neighbor had a huge mass of VC growing on a trellis and he just cut it to the ground, burned the old stuff and it came back but he cut out all the places he didn't want it. No problem.

I've had two growing for several years here in the cold, Zone 3 mountains of Colorado and perhaps our very short, 90 day growing season keeps it in check.

Our county extension office says VC is a native and not an invasive plant here. I often see it in the wild and it never even attempts climbing a tree!

On Oct 7, 2007, msbehavoyeur from Stockton, CA wrote:

Extremely invasive. Beautiful fall color, none the less I do not want this plant in my garden.

On Oct 2, 2007, linskia from London,
United Kingdom wrote:

This plant grows here in the UK and looks very splendid trailing over the walls at Holland Park in Kensington. Until reading the comments on your site I was not aware of anyone having an allergy to it, though allergies to a lot of things are rather common these days. It certainly does not seem to be invasive here and where it does appear seems to be very balanced within the environment and in fact adds a splendid display of color and cascading and climbing forms. It was also mentioned to me by my tutor at art school in 1979 when I was painting a mural, he mentioned that the plant I was painting was in fact a Virginia Creeper and there was one growing outside his window (in London). As for allergies, I don't seem to have any problem with it, my allergy is to plane trees which line the stree... read morets here, and give off a lot of fluffy things for several months of the year.

On Sep 11, 2007, OutlawDJ from Middleburg, PA wrote:

Virginia Creeper is really not evil. Actually, it is a very important food source for wildlife. Those who are allergic should not allow it to grow near their homes, but it isn't that hard to control. The runners that this plant puts out only run a couple of inches underground. Surrounding them with an underground barrier will keep them from spreading. Spraying with industrial strength vinegar will kill the plant. If the first spraying doesn't do the job, simply repeat. People who are allergic should have somebody else do this for them. If it starts to grow in an unwanted place, simply cut the portion that is above ground. When it can't get sun the roots will die. If it is growing up your trees, cut it off at the base and let the top portion die. Once the suckers rot away, it will either fa... read morell down on it's own or be easy to pull down from the ground.

Compared to the foreign vines that have escaped in this country, Virginia Creeper isn't that destructive. Japanese Honeysuckle has killed more trees and shrubs than Virginia Creeper ever will. It is also easy to identify from it's notorious look alike, poison ivy. Ivy has three leaves, Creeper has five. Think about keeping a patch on your property to help the birds and other small animals make it through the winter. Remember, your home took away their home. Give a little in return.

On Aug 30, 2007, Chesler from Woburn, MA wrote:

I found this page when I was looking at poison ivy links -- I've got the rash but couldn't find the plant. On the other hand, I learned that the 5-leafed vine that spreads by runner all across my back yard and climbs up my trees is this and that it makes some lucky folks appear to have poison ivy. I've let my back yard go natural in the 11 years I've lived here -- I figured it was easier on me and better for the birds -- but I've just decided I'd had enough of the Virginia creeper. It's going to be tough to get rid of, especially if I'm allergic to it.
I wouldn't invite this plant into my yard unless I were going to limit it very carefully.

On Jul 4, 2007, Cherisse from Copeland, KS wrote:

We're in zone 5a / 5b and this vine is threatening to ruin our trees by smothering them. It's so hard to get rid of that I can't imagine anyone wanting to plant it on purpose. There are other ways to get red foliage in the fall! :) Bird droppings spread this nuisance vine when they perch on trees / shrubs so beware. Keep an eye open for young plants so that they can be removed more easily. I spent 2 days crawling underneath a large evergreen tree trying to remove as much of the vine as possible, clipping the root below it's "bulb" but unable to dig the entire root up. I am guessing I have over 200+ evergreen trees on our place and am scared to even see how many more this vine might be under. Maybe Monsanto company will choose my yard to do a test sample on to see how effective thei... read morer products will control it. :) (A gal can dream.........*sigh*..........) lol

On Jun 2, 2007, yarily_holp from Philadelphia, PA (Zone 6b) wrote:

This is a good plant for certain uses. It can be quite invasive, but does have wildlife value, and the palmate-compound leaves are attractive with a finer texture than many other vines. The fruit is preferred by many birds, in particular thrush species like mockingbirds, catbirds, robins, wood thrushes, etc., and is useful to them during fall migration. The intense bright red fall color helps birds find the berries, and in turn the vine is spread in part by birds "planting" the seeds.

Individual plants also spread, as many of us well know. They're good as groundcovers for areas where you're not going to walk and don't have any delicate plants that would suffer from competition. If you're trying to take plants out, ALWAYS wear gloves and cover all skin, since for many, the pl... read moreant can cause allergic reactions that get more sensitive and worse each time, like poison ivy. As I understand it, the sap is the worst part.

On May 21, 2007, AuntieNancy from Minneapolis, MN wrote:

I'm hoping to be able to change my neutral experience into a positive one. Two years ago I planted Virginia Creeper and Boston Ivy alternately to grow up an old, unsighly fence. I was hoping for a relatively quick "cover". However, it has neither invaded nor "crept" up the fence as hoped. Perhaps it needs a little help (chicken wire or other 'something to hold on to')

Perhaps the Minnesota weather slows this sometimes invasive vine down ... I've also planted several perinials and whilst working in my garden, touching the creeper, have never experienced a rash.

We bought our Virginia Creeper and Boston Ivy at Bachman's (2 yr. old plants) and still nothing ... Here's hoping 2007 will be their summer.

On May 17, 2007, lolamina from Verona, NJ wrote:

As a Master Gardener, I am always reluctant to label plants 'invasive' because there are usually exceptions - heck, even bad guys have some good days! But take a drive along many wooded highways and look closely. Virginia Creeper leaves are one among many vine-species that you are actually looking at...not the poor host Oak, Maple, Elm, etc that is being choked to death!

My one STRONG PLEA IS THIS: No matter how vigilant the gardener, no matter how 'contained' the root system, and in spite of all related efforts to keep foreign plant species within your property...MOST INVASIVE plant species (foreign or native) will be true to their nature! They are THE EXPERTS...not us! Their DNA drive to propogate, proliferate, and survive is hardwired. Especially plants with determi... read morened root systems or vine habit. They either create an unhealthy monoculture, or simply rise and choke the life out of any plant or tree unlucky enough to get in its path. It is a lot easier (and cheaper!) to check out your local Native Plant agency or other gardener source to seek alternative plants with similar features before you pluck down a potential enemy! Thank You.

On May 12, 2007, JerusalemCherry from Dunellen, NJ (Zone 6b) wrote:

*** Ever wonder how Virginia Creeper got its name? My best guess is someone from Virginia named it years ago. An old text book I have gives some good info on this plants name. Latin name is Parthenocissus quinquefolia, from greek parthenos (a virgin) and kissos (ivy) referring to the common name Virginia Creeper. The quinquefolia part meens with five leaves (leaflets).

Engelmanni - Smaller leaves and better clinging characteristics than the standered species. Monham (Star Showers TM) - The leaves have white variegations. Variegata - A less vigorous vine than the species, leaves marked with yellow and white then developing a pink and red fall color.

Virginia creeper makes a fine bonsai. The most difficult thing in training them is to find a suitable specimen.... read more In the Northeast US they can often be collected. They grow very vigorously and form long vines. Look for the distinctive five leaflets and follow the vine back to the base. There is often a single heavy trunk which can be easily dug.

Although early spring is the best time to dig and transplant, they can be also transplanted during the growing season. Cut the vine back to an intersting line before digging. They will grow new buds quickly, which can be developed into branches. Since Virginia creeper is a vine, it is most suitable for cascade styles.

As far as the folige is concerned, it is easily reduced by defoliating during the summer, and it is very possible to defoliate twice or three times during the growing season. Even in Upstate New York, you can do it at least twice during the summer. Just remember to provide full sun, lots of water and fertilizer as well.

I generally allow the new shoots to run for about 8 to 10 inches, then trim back to the silhoutette. If you want to develope branchs, let the new shoots run until they reach the correct thickness.

The Virginia Creeper is a dependable superb autumn color and purple fruit will make it a focal point for your autumn bonsai viewing for a few days.

On Apr 23, 2007, District826 from Frostproof, FL wrote:

I just recently pulled up a massive amount of this plant behind the plant shop where I work. I took every precaution not to touch the plant, as I am known to have allergic reactions to many things. It was pulled as a precautionary measure because it can cause a rash, but it was very, very beautiful, especially the new growth.

On Apr 11, 2007, austringer84078 from Vernal, UT wrote:

Not a problem in the high desert of Utah zone 4-5. If we want something to die we stop watering it, except for Russian Olive Trees. They will grow anywhere. My dad has had this vine growing on the side of his house for the last 45 years. Great shade cover. The only problem is that once it gets to the top of the house it just keeps on going and occasionally tries to explore under the shingles. Dad (now near 80 years old) goes up on the roof and cuts them back once or so a year. They have never tried to spread horizontally into the grass. With the only water coming from sprinklers and -30F winters it doesn't take much to control it here.

On Mar 25, 2007, WUVIE from Hulbert, OK (Zone 7a) wrote:

We have lived in the same home for about twelve years,
and in that time, I've seen the same vine leaf out, grow
berries and turn red, but nothing excessive or invasive.

I'm not saying everyone should plant it, but I have never
experienced the horrors everyone else has mentioned.
On rare occasion, I find little sprouts, but yank them
out and am done with them. Perhaps we just have more
birds in our area and thus have few sprouts popping up
the following spring?

I find it attractive and just let it grow where it has since
before we moved in. It is indeed a gorgeous color and the
added berries for the birds makes it a pleasant plant to
watch climb our black walnut trees each year.

On Jan 6, 2007, Tetrazygia from Miami, FL (Zone 10b) wrote:

This plant is aggressive in my area, but nothing too horrible. I can understand the frustrations of those who find it invasive, but it is important to remember it is SUPPOSED to be there. If some kind of human activity is lending advantage to the plant and creating an environment in which it will overpower other plants (when it otherwise wouldn't), then it is those human activities that need to change.

Also, to those having allergic reactions--this plant is not related to poison ivy, but grapes. It's not out to get you! Many plants cause allergic reactions in different people, and you can't go crazy trying to get rid of plants that give you a reaction. I'm allergic to palms and cypress trees, both trees that I live around and value very much. Not to mention ragweed.... read more Oh, and I have an extreme sensitivity to poison ivy and poisonwood. But they're native and an integral part of the ecosystem. Animals rely on these plants for their existence more than any rash could ever bother you. You can't blame others for allowing this plant to grow just because you don't like it or are negatively affected by it. It's just nature doing its thing. I'm not saying any of you should have it in your garden, but there are plenty of places where it does belong.

On Aug 31, 2006, Bexter from Woods Hole, MA wrote:

Virginia creepers flattened several acres of woods where I grew up in New York. Where mature forest trees stood fifteen years ago is now low scrub with a vanguard of virginia creeper like some kind of space-slime invasion.

Some people think that a native plant can never be called "invasive", but that's mixing up terms. Virginia creeper is not an "exotic" invasive, but it certainly can be a "native" invasive.

Some people think an "invasive" or "rambunctious" plant won't be a problem if they themselves are going to plant it in a place where it won't get out of control.

Well, even if it may not cause trouble for YOU, take note when you see trees in your area being levelled by vines like bittersweet, virginia creeper, porcelain berry, etc. The see... read moreds from plants possibly a mile or more away could be causing it.

Also, many people above assume that a plant will be less invasive in colder climates, but from the comments above, it seems that most of the positive experiences with virginia creeper are from warmer climates like Florida while the negative super-invasion comments come from colder places.

So please think twice before planting something that many people in your area consider an invasive. Thank you!

On Aug 24, 2006, hellnzn11 from Rosamond, CA (Zone 8b) wrote:

In our area high temps for 4 to 6 months are not out of the norm, it gets below freezing for atleast 2 to 4 months in the night, we have heavy clay soil and winds but this is a great plant if you properly plan where to put it. It can cover your roses and will attach to anything that grapes attach to. It is a fast growing screen for ugly chain link. I planted it under a willow with Vinca major and Algerian Ivy and all are doing well, surprisingly only the ivy is climbing up the tree. The leaves seem to grow much larger in the shade in zone11.

On Aug 14, 2006, sherwoodlucas from Ridgefield, CT wrote:

For 30 years Virginia creeper has made my life a torment and I learned its name only today. None of the gardeners here in Connecticut could put a name to the plant that I said made me sick. Thanks to the thoughtful postings at Dave's Garden I now know that it isn't poison ivy or poison oak. It is much worst.

Every year I get several attacks. Currently, I am in the second week of a reaction to the plant. I have been to the doctor, taken a 6-day of prednisolne treatment and still new blisters are emerging. Each blister itches like crazy and feels like a pin is inserted into each one of them. There are at least 1,000 blisters on me. This isn't my worst reaction. That one caused a 4"x6" bright red blotch on my forearm where ALL my skin was eaten away. The doctor had to... read more stiffle a scream when he saw it. Weeks of antibiotic cream, piles of non-stick bandages, and roll after roll of self-sticking tapes saved me from the staph infection the doctor was concerned about. He told me, you just can't walk around with a hole in you skin like that.

In the garden here in Connecticut, we have only a few small plants. Thinking it was poison ivy or poison oak, I was spaying Ortho Poison Ivy killer on the plants' leaves when they are dry and when rain isn't expected for 24 hours. The spray kills the leaves and the vine withers.

I'll try the vinegar technique in my woodland garden, which is a reclaimed wooded area. There is a chipmonk living in the old stump there. I have avoided the chemical spray in that part of the garden but the Virginia creeper is gaining.

My hearts breaks for those of you who have major stands of this truly horrible plant. Good luck with your efforts to clear the plants

Those of you who post positive comments about this "pretty plant" really do need to think about the health of others. This is an extremely toxic plant.

On Jul 28, 2006, jasza from Allison Park, PA wrote:

Allison Park, PA...Originally I thought this was a beautiful vine; however, when it grew up the trees and completely covered the tops of them, I knew it was time to trim it back. Low and behold I broke out in a terrible rash much like poison ivy. My doctor prescribed Clobetasol Propionate Gel (.05%) to apply to the rash. It works. I now keep the prescription filled and on hand at all times. When I remove the vine, I cut the feet from old socks and wear them over the sleeves of my sweat shirt and gloves. When done, I carefully remove the socks and dispose them. I also cover my hair with a bandana! My grandson retrieved a ball the other day and brushed up against the vine and now his back is covered with blisters! Time to remove it again. I hate this plant!!!

On Jul 8, 2006, isabella from Taunton, MA wrote:

VC grows naturally in my small portion of NE woodland. True to its nature, itt creeped up my retaining wall slowly, hit more daylight, and then exploded with growth. My chainlink fence is now a fence hedge, which is delightful for me. The VC does try to grow into the yard, but it's easily mowed/trimmed into submission. My perrenial up the other side slope is a different story. I have to pull up the VC runners and sprouts at least 2X a year, but they come up so easily it's no problem.

I was surprised to see this plant for sale at nursery's, as it's so naturally abudant at my home. The plant tags and websites say it is the earlies to show fall color (turning red), but I have never had any of mine show any interesting fall color. Typically the japanese beetles eat thi... read mores stuff up so quickly in July/June the tattered remains just quietly die back in winter. Actually this may be the one good thing about this plant is that it spares my roses from being the primary food source for the jap. beetles.

I have transplanted some of the VC to other parts of my house to climb up other parts of my fences. other good attribute of this plant is that it will not cling to vinyl siding.

On Jun 28, 2006, bivbiv from Central FL, FL (Zone 9b) wrote:

I have never hated a plant before, but I HATE VIRGINIA CREEPER!!!!!!!!!! We've been trying to get rid of it for TWENTY YEARS!!!!

On Jun 21, 2006, beebalmvt from Montpelier, VT wrote:

I'm in Montpelier, Vermont--usually zone 4 more or less. I had never seen VCreeper before I moved to this town in 2001. It had just stuck to wrapping itself around an old, dead elm until last year. It was the first year that every kind of vine or invasive plant--native or nonnative--went crazy all over my yard. The worst, however, was VC, which crossed the lawns, attacked all kinds of trees and had me reliving Little Shop of Horrors. I remember now that the fall before, I had been pulling on some roots that kept going on and on--this was to clear space to plant some daffodils. I didn't see any foliage, but realize now that the plant must have been virginia creeper. Could my pulling up what I thought were roots have actually caused it to grow faster than ever? It had not been a prob... read morelem up until this point. Another factor could be long, winters with inadequate snow cover?

Anyhow, thank you to the person who discovered the acetic acid treatment--I intend to take it up immediately. Also, thanks for listing the skin irritation reactions--I'd been wondering about that...

Now, if only someone could find the solution to Japanese Knotweed...

On Jun 9, 2006, oldmudhouse from Las Cruces, NM (Zone 8a) wrote:

It either needs a lot of space, or containment. I grew it wild on a hot rocky hillside mixed with Vinca Major, under Live Oak trees. It was never a problem. I did have to occasionally discourage it from climbing my trees, but a quick snip at the ground kept it at bay for months. I never had an allergic reaction as many others have mentioned.

I also transplanted it into a narrow rock planter we made at the base of a limestone garage wall. The planter covered an ugly old concrete footing, and it only held about 2-4" of soil in pockets. Once it was established I rarely watered, and it flourished, in almost no soil. Tough as nails.

It did require periodic pruning at the top to prevent it from getting tangled in the eaves. Beautiful red color in the fall against... read more the white rock wall, when the whitetail deer didn't eat all the leaves off it. Which they did regularly, but it never hurt the plant. If you have a contained place where it can't get out of hand, and you will love how it looks against rock.

On Jun 7, 2006, Katie06 from Washington, PA wrote:

I live in Washington, PA where this grows wild. I was having a continuous problem with it until I found this site. I just wanted to let everyone know who is trying to get rid of it, in a previous comment someone said vinegar works, and it does. After only about 2 hours the leaves started changing and today it is dead!

On Jun 3, 2006, intreverend from Champaign, IL wrote:

I learned about Virginia Creeper when I developed severe blisters on my arms and legs after working in the flower beds of my new house. It took me a few days to figure out why I had the reaction because there was no Poison Ivy/Oak or Sumac in sight. Luckily, I did not need medica attention, however, I did come across a study by Cornell University that suggested that using acetic acid (vingegar) would effectively dispose of climbing vines. I tried it on Virginia Creeper, and the leaves browned in a couple hours. VInegar was more effective than Roundup on the vines in my flower bed.

On May 26, 2006, Kiapa from Fort Worth, TX wrote:

I aodre this climber. It has redish fall color and everyone thinks it's poison ivy and steer clear of it all!

On Apr 6, 2006, pdoyle23323 from Chesapeake, VA (Zone 7b) wrote:

This weed is VERY invasive. I had it at my previous home and could not get all of it! In my new home I periodically walk the property spraying with weed killer on any new growth I see of it. It will take over quickly!

On Mar 5, 2006, Malus2006 from Coon Rapids, MN (Zone 4a) wrote:

This plant is nice for covering certain areas. There are two species, which differs by one major characteristic - one species uses suckers much like Trumpet Creeper to latch on vertial structures while the other species have tendrils to latch on wires or any rough surfaces. The speces with tendrils in the wild here tend to be strongly groundcover with vines where there are woodedge or shrubs even thought they also likes trees that have low branches close to the ground like spruces. The species with tendrils is the most common seen here in the Twin Cities by my eyes, as the species that uses suckers tend to be not hardy here. I wonder whenever the invasive ones in the south have suckers or tendrils? For all other readers, I am also wondering if some of your "virginia creeper" are actually... read more woodbine, Parthenocissus inserta?

On Feb 19, 2006, c_etude from Winter Haven, FL wrote:

I live in central Florida, and I honestly cannot consider this "invasive". It's a strong vine, and pretty, and grows where a lot of other plants refuse. I had this plant growing on my fence. (Where it came from, I have no idea because i never planted it; possibly from bird droppings?)

But it was easily rid--simply use Round Up. Saturate leaves. May need to repeat. But it was gone after that for good.

I would say it's a strong average vine that is drought resistent. Very holiday-looking in the Winter.

For Bonsai lovers, you can very easily turn this vine into something 6 or 12 inches long maximum and will appear to be a smart looking very attractive miniature tree! In fact, you can Bonsai ANY vine you care to, and it will never get any larger ... read morethan 6 or 12 inches with a thick trunk. Totally cool.

On Jan 25, 2006, wtliftr from Wilson's Mills, NC wrote:

I can't give it a negative, since it is native to NC- but very invasive! Never had a problem with a rash, though...BEAUTIFUL foilage in the fall. FYI- the vitaceae family is the grape family- NOT poison ivy, etc. If anyone wants to buy some plants, I also have some KUDZU I can sell you...

On Jan 11, 2006, MitchF from Lindsay, OK (Zone 7a) wrote:

I love this plant, you have to keep it in check but I just love the plant the color and the growth of the plant.

On Dec 14, 2005, Legit from Porterfield, WI (Zone 4b) wrote:

From reading all the comments, I am shocked to see how many problems virginia creeper has caused. I have also come to the conclusion that in the colder zones it does not seem to get out of hand. I has been climbing over the top of our concrete garage since the beginning of time, and we've been here over 20 years. The trunks are as thick as a small child's arm at the base. It has caused no problems and we love it. It tends to grow over our doorway, and dh and myself have to pull or clip a new opening several times a summer, and neither of us have had any reaction to it.

It grows in several other places here, and is not a problem, sometimes presenting gorgeous berries, but the birds don't let them around long.

On Nov 14, 2005, SanibelKit from Sanibel, FL (Zone 10a) wrote:

Nope: it's lovely, but one of those things that will take over the ground and your trees, maybe anything else that stands still long enough. We have much worse invasives here in zone 10a (where many plants that can survive often seem to become invasive!) but this one's bad too. A yard man helped me get rid of the biggest vines - that were overpowering my native buttonwoods - by cutting and immediately spraying the cut base (only) with an herbicide. Of course, some are growing back anyway, but the buttonwoods are leafing out more.

On Nov 8, 2005, escambiaguy from Atmore, AL (Zone 8b) wrote:

While this plant is aggressive, I don't think it could be considered invasive. It has always been in North America. It's no more of a problem than greenbriar, scuppernong, climbing wild roses, etc. (at least it doesn't have thorns).

On Sep 29, 2005, bulldozier from Ventura, CA wrote:

Like many others here, I found out the hard way how horrible Virginia Creeper can be. It grows along my backyard fence here in Ventura, CA, so after a trimming I broke out in horrible rashes wherever my skin was exposed. I know poison ivy and oak very well from past experiences (requiring prednisone) and knew it couldn't have been one of them. Unfortunately, now I must destroy all of these plants because my dogs might be able to pass the oxalate crystals to my skin. Beware - I am pretty sure I touched this plant many times before with no reaction, so the allergy can develop at any time. I think the rash is actually worse than poison oak because it seems to take longer to stop itching.

On May 7, 2005, Rontx from Azle, TX wrote:

This "Creepy" Creeper is reported to be toxic to a "few". Well I'm one of the "Few". It's as bad if not worse than Poison Ivy. I am sitting here with one eye nearly swollen shut because I unknowingly got exposed to it while mowing around a tree in my yard. Don't grow it! If it doesn't affect you it will still affect other innocents who may visit your property!

On Apr 23, 2005, DawnRain from Bartow, FL wrote:

As a native American, it has its right to existence and I will not call a native an invasive. Weed, yes. A weed is a plant growing where you don't want it. And I yearly remove it from the cultivated gardens. You will find it growing beneath trees mostly, because that is where birds drop the seeds. I know many of them are dependent on this natural food. How much healthier to allow some of this plant to grow than to feed them from a crowded feeder where diseases can be spread. But then I am not allergic to this or poison ivy, so I don't suffer from their presence.

On Apr 22, 2005, CaptMicha from Brookeville, MD (Zone 7a) wrote:

This plant is a negative in my book because I dislike anything that spreads and invades so rapidly and completely. However, I see their draw. It's crimson and shiny foliage is quite attractive.

The woods on my property are a lost cause. There's just too much to get rid of it all. We find very large vines but I'm not sure whether it's virginia creeper or an actual wild grape. Either way, without those thick vines, there's enough definate virginia creeper around. I'm rather appalled to see this plant so widely available and advertised in retail.

On Nov 2, 2004, winter_unfazed from Rural Webster County, MO (Zone 6a) wrote:

This plant is very invasive, and when it finds a telephone pole, it climbs like nobody's business. I used to be afraid to touch it, kind of like Chicken Little and the leaf, because I thought that it was poison ivy. It turns brilliant red in the fall.

Edit as of 19 Dec. 2005: I think I should change my rating from neutral to positive. I have not seen any of the evil side of it in 2 years of observation; it covers things well and in a short period of time, growing about 60 cm higher per year. Its foliage is visible from far away, and it produces berries that feed birds.

On Aug 14, 2004, rsutt from Atascadero, CA wrote:

Beautifull and strong. Here in central Ca. there are many microclimates and creeper is a survivor. This is `The Digger Pine Zone Belt` and our native plant selections are unusual and hardy. Our soil is poor and must be heavily amended.

On Aug 7, 2004, doosey from Avella, PA wrote:

It wasn't until I began yanking long trailing/burrowing vines of this off of the ground and out of the trees it was strangling that I discovered that I would have a severe reaction to this plant. I kept thinking that somehow poison ivy was the cause, but like the other responder a note or so before mine, I hadn't been IN any poison ivy, oak or sumac! Then I found this site and decided that the culprit had to be this Virginia creeper!

I think I will have permanent scarring, also. I fought with it for several weeks, trying to kill it with Zanfel (to wash away urishiol), but it wouldn't go away...so I finally resorted to a Medrol dose pack by MD prescription...and Claritin (OTC) for the itch. Benadryl hadn't touched the itch. (No pun intended.) I now have large dry scab... read mores and surrounding reddened areas on my arms and legs and look rather like a leper. BEWARE!

Who would want this plant to grow in their trees? It will eventually kill them!

On Aug 1, 2004, death2creeper from Carmel, IN wrote:

A portion of my woodlot is a 2 acre yard that I'm returning to a forested state. The other day I noticed that a black cherry tree on the edge of this area was almost completely covered on one side by Virginia Creeper from the base to about 40' off the ground.

I placed a 32' extension ladder against the tree and stripped the leaves and vines off the tree to a height of about 25'.

BIG MISTAKE! I was wearing gloves, long pants, and unfortunately a short sleeved shirt. Everywhere this plant touched I've got welts, especially where my wrists touched the portion of the ladder which touched the leaves. A trip to the emergency room seemed to be in order when my arms started swelling up. I'm taking a 12 day course of prednisone, and Benadryl. It seems to be helping, as... read more the swelling's gone away, and the blisters are no longer oozing but the itching is intense.

This plant is extremely invasive and seems to be very shade tolerant. The vines are able to travel well into shaded areas until they find a tree trunk to climb. When they break out into sunlight at the top of the canopy they leaf out in a spectacular fashion. Some trees with this infestation seem to have dead limbs as a result (locusts and black cherry), and some don't (oaks).

On Jul 26, 2004, BingsBell from SC, MT (Zone 5a) wrote:

I live in 4/5 Z and find many of the more appealing vines are annuals here. I can't beat Virgina Creeper for covering ugly fences with it's green foliage and in the fall the colors are outstanding.

I also have a plant that looks much like Virginia Creeper called Engelman Ivy. You can hardly tell them apart. The Engelman clings better than the Virginia but otherwise, without the tags on them, I can't tell which is which. Fortunately I have no allergy to either and I am glad because I like this vine so well. In climates where it is colder like mine this vine isn't invasive. In fact I have to layer it to make it go where I want it to.

On Jul 25, 2004, Mophead from Aylesford,
Canada wrote:

The Annapolis Valley area of Nova Scotia is Zone 6a and Virginia Creeper is common. I planted it against my garden shed to soften the hard edges. It was a small clipping that has been gradually increasing in size for the last 5 years and is only now reaching the top of the shed. It can be invasive but, in my case, planting in deep shade has kept the growth to a restrained level. It is glorious in its fall colour.

On Jul 24, 2004, NatureWalker from New York & Terrell, TX (Zone 8b) wrote:

Last week a neighbor tried to remove this Virginia Creeper. After trying unsuccessfully to get rid of it for years, he hitched a tow chain to it, then to his pickup, and pulled on it. He successfully removed 3 fence posts and the chain link fencing from a good portion of his 'cyclone' fence that was 4 foot high.

I guess he was so mad at it he took out a small axe and started to chop it up into small pieces; alas there-by giving some of the smaller cuts a chance to live on. Next year, I guess; he might be getting a whole new yard full of them; and bombing the place out too. Or eradicate all the plants in his back yard by using a couple of gallons of round up. It apparently survived the few days of -35 degrees this past winter.

{8^) ; just a thought: Wou... read moreldn't concrete or tar would be much easier. *~* Oh! I live in Zone 5a, way up in the Catskill Mountains!

On Jul 8, 2004, Egglantinerose from Zionsville, IN wrote:

I agree with all of you about the rashes. This plant is beautiful, but very TOXIC to me. I was exposed on June 17, 2004. I had on long pants, & evidently it went through the fabric, or I touched the top of my legs while removing my pants and t-shirt. I wore gloves but I got the most HORRIBLE red rash. Some actually turn into pustules.

I had to obtain medical treatment. The area on my arms started on my right arm, and it was a horrible red rash that itched terribly. I then broke out on my left arm in the same way. In fact, the ones on the arms are getting better but they have left scars. My upper legs are still breaking out.

It is growing up a telephone pole on which I have trellised a Blaze climber rose and a Jackamanii clematis. I have gone in with a spong... read moree paint brush and painted the leaves with Weed-Out. It has not phased it at all. I will keep trying
to kill it. One of you said it contains something oxalictis? I do know that I have used Oxalic Acid to remove rust stains from clothing. Is this the same chemical family? Be Well, God Bless, Pray for Peace, I am Egglantinerose

On Jun 15, 2004, xword from Sanford, NC (Zone 7a) wrote:

Very similar comments to others who have tried to eradicate this pest. My 4 year old granddaughter and I have itchy bumps and swollen eyes. I never experienced this reaction in the past to removing vines -- perhaps it is because I have been pulling up the roots quite a lot lately? Again, I don't know how my granddaughter was exposed, unless by contact with my hands when I put sunblock on her before she goes to camp. All in all, a nice looking vine, but too invasive and too dangerous.

On Jun 9, 2004, cynthia2232 from Muncy Valley, PA wrote:

This plant has sent me to the emergency room more times than I or my pocketbook would care to count. IF you happen to be one of the few who are allergic to this plant (LIKE ME) you should stay away from it completely! If that is not possible then wear long pants, long sleeves, and gloves and make sure the material is thick. Wipe pets down as they come into contact with you, DO NOT remove shoes without either keeping the gloves on or washing hands ASAP after removing them. Remove clothes carefully and put in washer inside out so you don't touch the bad sap.

DO NOT WEED WACK THIS PLANT OR WEED WACK IN PLACES U EVEN THINK IT MAY BE! This can cause the worst all over body rash you have ever known. I do not get Poison ivy but my rash from this plant is EXACTLY like my frie... read morends who DO GET POISON IVY. The blisters the itch the red and puffy etc. Also, don't even think of touching it in winter if you break out from this plant (made that mistake once-just once-another trip to the Hospital for shots from big needles and prednisone pills). PS I had submitted another post for this plant but do not see it. Maybe because of flame thrower comment?

On Jun 2, 2004, luv2garden211 from Glenolden, PA wrote:

This plant is very pretty in every season. In my 6 a or b garden in Pennsylvania, it flourishes so much so that it comes up everywhere. If you first spot a new little plant, it's easy to get rid of. However established areas are very, very difficult to eradicate. It is extremely invasive.

On May 31, 2004, rparrott from Dallas, TX wrote:

For years I have thought this ivy was either poison ivy or poison oak, and then someone finally told me it wasn't. Last week I was trimming weeds and pulled alot of this off my fence (without gloves--big mistake!!!) The next day my face was on fire. It went from redness to scabbing, and now I have what looks like dark burnt skin. It never got blistery or oozed like PI. I've been baffled all week as to what plant it came from.

This A.M. I pulled some more of the vine down and it showed up on the top of my hand. I finally decided to do more research online and low and behold its virginia creeper. I've learned my lesson to wear gloves, but talk about an evil plant. I've read all about the oxalate crystals and what can happen. Thank God for websites like this! Thanks!!!!

On May 14, 2004, itsallaboutsoil from Martinsburg, WV, WV wrote:

I was interested to read that this plant can cause a poison ivy/oak type rash - for years I have known that it causes me to have a rash yet I couldn't find any believers. I won't touch it because I have had the rash so bad that I had to have medical treatment. It is beautiful but it is invasive and I would never suggest anyone plant it - anywhere.

On May 3, 2004, melody from Benton, KY (Zone 7a) wrote:

I'm neutral on this plant, as I'm not fighting it's spread in my yard as some folks are. I know that it can get very thick and invasive and can see the problems that result.
I still love to drive down the road in early Fall and see the bright red leaves.

On Sep 29, 2003, ckfarr from Spring, TX wrote:

This plant is HORRIBLE!! I have thought for years that it was poison oak and have been terrified to touch it. I have a bed of English Ivy in my front yard and this creeper pops up all the time. I just pulled one out of some photinia bushes I have and the roots ran for about 15 ft down the side of my house. Once I finally found the main root and I went to pull on it, it snapped in half! The roots are so brittle and break very easily. I live in zone 8b (just north of Houston, TX) and it loves to grow here! Its worse than trumpeter vine!

On Jul 20, 2003, mocloa from Hendersonville, TN wrote:

This is a weed in my area. It grows very well and needs to be constantly removed. It is often confused with poison ivy.
It seems to find its way into the yard even though there doesn't seem to be a source.

On Jul 8, 2003, phalvorson from Panama City, FL (Zone 8b) wrote:

This plant is very invasive. It was in our front & back yards when we bought our house 4 years ago, and we have been fighting it ever since. Not only will it climb up trees, but it will also spread across the ground -- sending long runners about 1-2" below the surface. The runners are easy to pull if there is limited growth over them, but otherwise they snap off and start re-growing if you can't get the whole runner out of the ground. This plant is also a very fast grower. We live in the Florida panhandle (zone 8b).