Virginia Creeper

Parthenocissus PLANCH.

Family: Vitaceae (grape family)

Synonyms

Boston ivy, woodbine

Description

The maiden vine is a fast-growing climbing plant that climbs up trees as well as walls and building facades. The green leaves are usually palmately compound, consisting of five leaflets, though three-lobed leaves are sometimes found, particularly on young shoots. The leaves are about 5–12 cm long and turn a bright red in autumn. The small, greenish-yellow flowers appear in panicles from June to July and are rather inconspicuous. After flowering, round, dark blue to black fruits form, with a diameter of about 6–10 mmshort formillimetre, which have a slight sheen. The shoots have adhesive discs with which they can cling to surfaces.

The constituents include oxalates, which are present in the fruits.
 

Symptoms of poisoning

• If swallowed, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain may occur. Irritation of the mucous membranes is also possible.
• Skin contact may cause redness and a slight burning sensation.
• Eye contact may cause irritation, watering and a burning sensation.

First Aid

• If swallowed, remove any plant parts from the mouth and rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.
• In case of skin contact, rinse the affected areas thoroughly with water.
• If swallowed, contact a Poison Centre immediately and ensure the child is examined by a doctor. If the doctor's surgery is closed, go to a hospital.