Boston Ivy
Parthenocissus tricuspidata
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Pl. 9343 — Parthenocissus tricuspidata
Parthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidataParthenocissus tricuspidata
IOverview
Overview
Boston Ivy, scientifically known as Parthenocissus tricuspidata, is a deciduous vine native to China North-Central, Southeast, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Primorye, Taiwan, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil with a pH range of 5–6.5 and can grow up to 18 meters tall. While it is primarily known for its ornamental value, Boston Ivy also has edible parts, specifically the sap, which makes it useful in certain culinary applications. Its distinctive features include its ability to climb surfaces using tendrils and its leaves, which turn a vibrant red in autumn, adding color to urban landscapes and gardens.
Quick answers
What is Boston Ivy?
Boston Ivy, scientifically known as Parthenocissus tricuspidata, is a deciduous vine native to China North-Central, Southeast, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Primorye, Taiwan, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil with a pH range of 5–6.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Boston Ivy thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5 and 6.5. It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 18 meters as a vine. For optimal growth, provide it with plenty of light, though it can tolerate partial shade. Propagate via cuttings or layering. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Vine
Mature size
18.0 m tall
Soil pH
5–6.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Boston Ivy for the first time
8steps
Start with basic care and enjoy the vine's growth as a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
A trellis or support structure, garden gloves.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 5 and 6.5; ensure containers are at least 10 gallons for each vine.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost, then transplant outdoors once danger of frost is past.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist; avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering and regular pruning for shape. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts; remove dead or weak vines to encourage healthy growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not providing enough support, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Sap
Edible uses: Sweetener
Other uses:Ground cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 22 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 22 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 8 native· 22 introduced
Europe5 regions
introduced (5)AlbaniaBelgiumBulgariaRomaniaSpain
Asia5 regions
native (5)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanVietnam
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Burundi
Broader regions
native:Primorye
introduced:Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Yugoslavia, Masachusettes, Connecticut
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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