Macro Photography: Woodbine Flowers

Today's photo is the bloom of a woodbine (Parthenocissus vitacea). This vine is often mistaken for Virginia Creeper. The two species are very similar and the name is often used interchangeably. I grew up thinking this vine was called woodvine and was surprised to learn that it is spelled (and pronounced) with a "b" instead of a "v".  According to Friends of the Wild Flower Garden, the correct name for woodbine is grape woodbine. Whatever you call it, this vine covers fences, climbs the sides of building and even sprawls on the ground. It produces clusters of tiny flowers in early to midsummer. The resulting fruits are clusters of tiny blue berries that each hold two seeds.