Virginia Creeper

Virginia Creeper, Parthenocissus quinquefolia

Virginia Creeper is a native woody, deciduous vine often confused for poison ivy. It can be found throughout the eastern portion of North America and is relatively adaptable, tolerating shade, salt, and dry conditions including coastal dune areas. During the fall, the five leaflets turn brilliant shades of red. A variety of wildlife eat the autumn fruits including songbirds and small mammals, while the foliage is often consumed by both deer and cattle; however, the berries are highly toxic to human consumption mainly due to oxalic acid. The common name Virginia creeper comes from  the creeping tendrils to allow it to climb. Although great cover for many small animals, this vine can become parasitic and kill its host plant overtime if left unchecked.

Leaves of three, let it be;

Leaves of five, let it thrive.

While Virginia creeper and poison ivy often grow in the same locations, looking at leaflet number can help distinguish the plants. A brightly colored leave in fall could be either, but if it has five leaflets, it's Virginia creeper, and therefore harmless.