How to Identify Boston Ivy

It's the plant that put the Ivy in Ivy League. Boston ivy, or Parthenocissus tricuspidata is common on the Commons of eastern colleges, but unless you are in the outfield of Wrigley Field, where everyone knows that Boston ivy covers the wall, you might need some tips on how to identify this lush vine.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Analyze the type of plant you are identifying. If the plant requires support and has tendrils helping it to climb on a tree or wall or creep on the ground it's a climbing ornamental plant called a vine. Boston ivy is a perennial vine.
2. Inspect the area where the plant is growing. Boston ivy is frequently seen climbing brick or stone walls, fences, or trees and a single branch can reach 50 feet or more. If support isn't available, it will cover the ground.
3. Determine how the vine is attached to the tree or structure. Boston ivy attaches itself to its support by tendrils tipped with sticky disks. Check the base of the plant also. The lower stems of this ivy are woody and brown and can be several inches across when mature.
4. Examine the leaves. Boston ivy has three-lobed shiny green leaves that are slightly undulate (scalloped) along the edges.
5. Consider the time of year you are viewing the plant and if the plant has flowers or fruit. This plant is a deciduous vine; it drops its leaves in winter. Summer brings flowers that are hidden by the foliage, but turn to juicy dark blue berries. In fall, the leaves turn red or bright orange.

Tips & Warnings

• Unfortunately, Boston ivy is a plant that Japanese beetles enjoy. There really isn't much that can be done about the beetles. It is best not to use one of those beetle trap bags. They only attract more beetles.
• Boston ivy is also known as Japanese creeper, Boston creeper, Japanese ivy or Grape ivy.

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