Vine facts for kids

A curling tendril helps a vine climb!

Vines use other plants to reach sunlight.

A vine is a special kind of climbing plant. It uses its stems or long runners to grow. These runners often spread out on the ground first. But when they find something to climb, like a tree or a wall, they quickly start to grow upwards! This way of growing helps vines reach sunlight, especially in places where tall trees block the light.

In the United Kingdom, when people say "vine," they usually mean the grapevine. Other climbing plants are just called "climbers." The grapevine, which belongs to the genus Vitis, grows berries that we call grapes. These grapes can be used to make wine or juice. In the United States, most climbing plants are called vines, ivies, or sometimes creepers, like the Virginia Creeper.

Most vines are flowering plants. They can be split into two main groups:

What Makes a Plant a Vine?

Vines have a unique way of growing. Instead of growing a strong, thick trunk like a tree, they grow long, flexible stems. These stems can't stand up on their own very well. So, vines have developed special ways to grab onto things and climb. Some vines have tiny tendrils that curl around supports, while others have sticky pads or roots that cling to surfaces. This helps them get high up without using a lot of energy to build a thick stem.

Types of Vines

There are many different kinds of vines! They are usually put into two groups:

Woody Vines (Lianas)

These vines have stems that become hard and woody over time, just like tree branches. They can live for many years and grow very long and strong. Examples include wisteria, which has beautiful flowers, kiwifruit vines that grow tasty fruit, and common ivy, which you might see climbing on buildings or trees.

Herbaceous Vines (Non-Woody)

These vines have soft, green stems that do not become woody. They often live for only one growing season, especially in places with cold winters. A good example is the morning glory, known for its pretty, trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the morning.

Vines in Nature

Vines play an important role in many habitats, especially forests. By climbing up trees, they help create a layered environment. This provides homes and food for many different animals, from insects to birds and monkeys. They can also help connect different parts of the forest canopy.

Images for kids

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  Betel, a climbing plant

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  Spring growth of Virginia Creeper

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  Grapevine covering a chimney

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  A large Apios vine on the street in Sochi, Russia

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  Botanical illustration of Lonicera sempervirens

See also

In Spanish: Planta de guía para niños