Parthenocissus tricuspidata Veitchii Robusta -Boston Ivy

The Parthenocissus tricuspidata 'Veitchii Robusta' is an exceptionally vigorous Virginia creeper with large dark green leaves that turn beautiful shades of red, scarlet, or brownish purple in autumn. This non-adhesive climbing plant with tendrils can cling to any support without damaging it. It is perfect for quickly covering large, unsightly walls or facades. It is easy to cultivate: plant it in full sun, partial shade, or even full shade, in ordinary but deep and well-prepared soil.

The Parthenocissus tricuspidata, also known as the three-lobed Virginia creeper or Japanese creeper, belongs to the vitaceae family. It is native to eastern Asia (central and northern China, Korea, Japan), where it grows in woods, forests, and rocky hills. This plant is naturalised in France.

The cultivar 'Veitchii Robusta' distinguishes itself from the species with its more vigorous and rapid growth and larger leaves. It is a woody and deciduous climbing or creeping plant that can reach up to 15 m (49ft) in all directions at maturity. Its foliage consists of 20 cm (8in) diameter leaves with toothed lobes. They are shiny, reddish when budding, and then turn dark green in summer. The autumn colours are magnificent, ranging from bronze-green to orange to deep wine-red, with enhanced hues and a glossy texture. In summer, its inconspicuous but honey-scented white-greenish inflorescences give way to blue-black berries.

Virginia creepers are elegant, romantic, and lavish: they transform any support into a flamboyant drapery at the end of the season, offering an almost unreal spectacle that can catch the eye from afar and captivate the contemplative observer. They are perfect for adding lushness to both vertical and horizontal surfaces. The Parthenocissus tricuspidata 'Veitchii Robusta', hardy down to -15°C, is very accommodating regarding soil and exposure, with its colours being more vibrant when its foliage receives sunlight for only part of the day. Pruning it without constraints in any season will keep it in check. With its considerable growth, this Virginia creeper is ideal for enhancing large spaces, whether as a wall covering or ground cover. It can be planted at the base of a wall or facade, or even on a slope. In autumn, the blue flowers are stunning next to its gleaming foliage. If the wall is sound, there will be no damage caused by the growth of the Virginia creeper. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that it would protect the dwelling it cloaks from extreme heat and harsh winters.