Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is a member of the grape family. It is common through the eastern and central portions of North America.
The vine -- having tendrils with terminal adhesive pads - is capable of scaling great heights. In the fall, its bright red leaves can be seen covering telephone poles, tall trees and stone walls.
It is often confused with Poison Ivy -- that has three leaves. And with False Virginia Creeper -- that looks identical but that has clinging tendrils without adhesive pads.
The fruit of the Virginia Creeper contains oxalic acid that is toxic to many mammals, including humans. The sap contains raphides -- calclium oxalate crystals -- that can cause an irritating skin rash.
