Vitis Coignetiae Crimson Glory Vine

Vitis Coignetiae, more commonly known as the Crimson Glory Vine, is a spectacular vigorous climbing plant with vivid red autumn foliage. The Vitis family of plants grow quickly scrambling up heights to cover large unsightly areas. The Crimson Glory Vine will reach a maximum of twelve metres and spread over two and half to four metres. 
Vitis Coignetiae Vines are usually bought for the heart-shaped foliage that appears in spring as dark green leaves measuring thirty centimetres in length. The undersides of these leaves are veiny and feel like felt. In May and June small green flowers appear and as autumn approaches its foliage begins to turn a bright scarlet red with orange and gold hues. In autumn black berries develop and although they are not edible, they are much loved by birds. In winter Crimson Glory Vine’s foliage falls, but the framework remains in place providing structure, height and texture.

How Hardy Is Vitis Coignetiae?
Vitis Coignetiae is fully hardy throughout the UK. It is deciduous and withstands harsh frost or snows provided its roots are not water-logged.

How To Use Vitis Coignetiae
The best use of Crimson Glory Vine is to scramble it up a wall, pergola, sturdy fence or tree. It is a large plant requiring room to grow and because the foliage is thick, it’s best to grow it independently. Other plants maybe staved of light and nutrients if grown alongside. 
Crimson Glory Vine is a good alternative to a traditional climbing rose or ivy and a reliable choice for gardeners who prefers low maintenance plants. 

How To Care For Vitis Coignetiae
Vitis Coignetiae requires little care once it’s established. It will grow in any type of soil from chalky to loamy and clay. It prefers alkaline to neutral soil, but if you have an acid soil prepare the ground with well rotted manure and compost. 
It grows best in full sun or partial shade for glorious autumn colours and in very hot spells will appreciate a soaking, but it does not need frequent watering unless grown in very dry soil. Vitis Coignetiae needs support to climb so some form of netting or trellis is important. Tie in the branches as your vine establishes itself and cut back to a healthy bud in the winter. 

The Royal Horticultural Society has given Vitis Coignetiae an Award of Garden Merit due to its glorious colour, hardy habit and low maintenance requirements. If you’re looking to cover a large unsightly area or want a thick quick-growing cover for your pergola or shed. Crimson Glory Vine is a tough yet attractive choice.