Thicket Creeper
Parthenocissus vitacea
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–600" H × 120"–360" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CO and 39 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Parthenocissus vitacea is a vigorous native climbing vine that can cover large areas with attractive five-leaflet foliage. It produces brilliant red fall color and small blue berries, climbing by tendrils and adhesive discs on walls, fences, or trees.
In an HOA neighborhood
Thicket Creeper takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very aggressive spreader that can damage structures
- Can look messy and overgrown without frequent pruning
- May be viewed as invasive or weedy by neighbors
Wildlife value
The berries provide food for over 35 bird species including woodpeckers and songbirds. The foliage supports various native moth and butterfly caterpillars.
Common questions
- How much sun does Thicket Creeper need?
- Thicket Creeper grows best in part sun conditions.
- Where is Thicket Creeper native?
- Thicket Creeper (Parthenocissus vitacea) is native to AL, AR, CA, CO and 39 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Thicket Creeper HOA-friendly?
- Thicket Creeper takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Thicket Creeper? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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