Trumpet Creeper, Trumpet Vine

(Campsis radicans `Flava')

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: 25 to 30 feet
Shape: Spreading

Summer foliage is dark green. Trumpet-shaped flowers range from yellow to orange to red and bloom in summer.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 4 to 9
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet, moist, or dry
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 6.8

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include climbing vine and screen.

Planting Notes:

Transplants readily.
Will grow in almost any soil conditions.
For best flowering, plant in sunny location.

Care:

Additional support is required for this vigorous vine.
Tying heavy branches to a sturdy support and thinning vine in early spring prevents strong winds from tearing it down.
Pinch back tips during the growing season to promote bushy growth.
Easily rooted from cuttings.

Problems:

If not controlled, rampant growth and sprouting of new growth may become a problem.
No pest or disease problems are serious enough to require control.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of CAMPSIS RADICANS:
`Flava' (shown) has yellow flowers.

Related species:
CAMPSIS. x TAGLIABUANA `Madame Galen' (a hybrid between CAMPSIS RADICANS and CAMPSIS GRANDIFLORA, a chinese species) has larger, showier flowers than the common Trumpet Creeper.

Comments:

Trumpet Creeper is a rampant, native, deciduous vine that climbs by both aerial rootlets and twining stems.
Useful for rustic effects on fences, posts, and walls. Also useful as a screen when given support on laths or trellises.
Long, cigar-like fruit against bright-tan stems may be considered decorative during winter.

Additional Materials:

The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-608 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Ornamental Vines

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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