Ampelopsis brevipedunculata Elegans - Porcelainberry

The Ampelopsis brevipedunculata 'Elegans' is a small and slow-growing Virginia creeper. It is ideal for covering a small trellis with its magnificent variegated deciduous foliage. The leaves are adorned with various shades of green, white, and pink, providing a constant spectacle from spring to autumn. In spring, its flowering is quite discreet, but it produces particularly decorative fruits in autumn. Initially grey-violet, these small balls then evolve to a stunning turquoise blue colour. This small climbing plant is moderately hardy and may suffer from extreme cold, so it prefers a semi-shaded location in very sunny regions.

The Ampelopsis brevipedunculata, literally meaning short peduncle, is charmingly named Porcelain Berry by English gardeners, as its turquoise blue fruits indeed resemble the most beautiful porcelain. Ampelopsis belongs to the Vitaceae family, which includes many climbers and vines, the most well-known being Parthenocissus (the common Virginia creeper in our gardens), Cissus used as a houseplant, and Tetrastigma, particularly T. voinierianum, a tropical vine that can grow considerably when cultivated in greenhouses in our climates. But the most famous member of this family is undoubtedly Vitis vinifera, commonly known as the grapevine.

Unlike Parthenocissus, which clings to supports using small suckers, Ampelopsis uses short tendrils. Therefore, it requires an open support, such as a trellis, to climb. The species is very vigorous and can climb up to 7 to 10 metres (23 to 33 feet) in height. The 'Elegans' variety has a slower and more limited growth, reaching a maximum height of 3 or 4 metres (10 or 13 feet), but spreading in width. It is perfect for covering a standard 2 x 2 metre (7 feet) wooden trellis and decorating a terrace, or as a boundary between properties.

Its beautifully lobed foliage, with 3 or 5 more or less pronounced lobes, is variegated with light green, darker green, white, and pink, bringing color and joy on gray days, with the rain emphasizing these mixed tones even more. It blooms from May to summer, but it is mainly its fruits that stand out. Starting off violet-grey, they gradually turn into a truly sumptuous turquoise blue, which is rare in the plant kingdom. They adorn the plant until the leaves fall and even beyond, although they do not persist in winter as birds consume them.

This variety grows in most soils, except strongly calcareous ones. It prefers fairly rich soils, with a neutral pH and some moisture in summer, while being well-drained for winter. This variety is moderately hardy, down to -10/-12°C (14/10.4°F), but a well-established stump can withstand even lower temperatures. Therefore, it should be protected from cold winter winds. In cooler regions, it will thrive in a sunny location, while in the south, it can be planted in partial shade.

It is not easy to associate this small Virginia creeper with other climbers without risking a clash of colours, due to its patchwork appearance, and its low vigour. To cover a large area, it is best to opt for simplicity by mixing it with the Akebia quinata, which will not overwhelm it. Its compound leaves resembling the Schefflera found in our homes and its cute little violet flowers will go well with the Ampelopsis 'Elegans'. A beautiful Clematis Eximia with charming pale violet flowers will also be a good companion, and to give an exotic touch to your decor, an association with the Passiflora coerulea will create an original scene.