Virginia creeper is native to eastern and central North America and grows in woodland edges, thickets, fences and rocky slopes. In Quebec it is native and widespread. Birds eat the berries through autumn and winter, and spread the seed.
The genus name comes from Greek words meaning virgin and ivy, and quinquefolia refers to the five leaflets. The common name refers to Virginia, the colony from which early specimens were sent to Europe, and French colonists called it vigne vierge. It has become established on other continents, and is treated as invasive in parts of Europe, where its aggressive spread has been a concern.