Trumpetcreeper (Campsis radicans)
Vigorous Campsis radicans (Trumpetcreeper) is a deciduous vine offering showy orange, scarlet blooms attractive to hummingbirds. Hardy in zones 4-9, it requires high maintenance to manage its aggressive spread.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Trumpetcreeper (Campsis radicans) is a highly vigorous, deciduous woody vine celebrated for its dense coverage and stunning summer floral display. This clinging vine attaches itself readily to supports via aerial rootlets, quickly covering large vertical spaces with its dark green foliage. Its most valuable feature is the terminal clusters of bright, trumpet-shaped flowers, which are orange to scarlet and act as magnets for hummingbirds.
While the ornamental value of Campsis radicans is undeniable, gardeners must be aware of its aggressive nature. It grows rapidly—reaching heights of 25 to 40 feet—and spreads extensively through suckering underground runners and prolific self-seeding. Successfully growing Trumpetcreeper means pairing it with a very sturdy support structure and committing to rigorous control measures.
Native to the Southeastern United States, this plant offers excellent screening capabilities and thrives even in challenging conditions. When sited correctly, Campsis radicans brings dramatic vertical texture and attracts essential wildlife, making it a powerful, albeit demanding, addition to the landscape.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Bignoniaceae
- Plant Type: Vine
- Native Range: Southeastern United States
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-9
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 25-40 ft
- Spread: 5-10 ft
- Bloom Time: July
- Bloom Description: Orange, scarlet
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: High
How to Grow
For best results, plant Trumpetcreeper in the spring or early fall after the danger of hard frost has passed, though it is easily grown in a wide variety of soils. It prefers lean to average soils and requires regular moisture, especially when establishing. While foliage develops even in shade, plants absolutely need good sun exposure to produce their maximum flowering potential.
Due to the sheer weight mature Campsis radicans vines can accumulate, structural support is non-negotiable; always use robust fences, arbors, or wire mesh. Because the plant blooms on new growth, pruning performed in early spring will not diminish the current season’s flower display. In fact, routine, hard pruning is often necessary to maintain desired size and limit invasiveness.
The primary challenge growers face with Trumpetcreeper is restraint. It suckers profusely from underground runners and self-seeds freely, often leading to colonies that can choke out less vigorous plants nearby. Monitor the base of the plant vigilantly for new shoots appearing away from the main vine and cut them back immediately to manage its colonization efforts.
Landscape Uses
Trumpetcreeper (Campsis radicans) excels where rapid, dense coverage is needed, making it ideal for naturalizing large areas or quickly softening utilitarian structures. Its vigorous habit means it provides quick cover for tall fences, arbors, or unsightly walls throughout its growing season. It can also be allowed to sprawl along the ground to camouflage rock piles or worn-out tree stumps, integrating it into woodland garden settings.
Because it requires strong support and a lot of space, this vine is not suitable for small areas or containers. However, the brilliant orange and scarlet flowers make it an excellent choice for specialized planting areas, particularly hummingbird gardens, where it serves as an irresistible nectar source. Site it away from desirable shrubs or delicate border plants that might be overwhelmed by its creeping tendrils.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Campsis radicans, commonly called trumpet vine or trumpet creeper, is a dense, vigorous, multi-stemmed, deciduous, woody, clinging vine that attaches itself to structures and climbs by aerial rootlets. It is native to the southeastern U. S. Including Missouri, but has naturalized in many northern states. Clusters of red trumpet-shaped flowers appear throughout the summer, followed by long bean-like seed pods. The genus name describes the bent stamens on the flowers, while the specific epithet notes its rooting stems.
Tolerances
- Deer
- Drought
- Clay Soil
Potential Problems
This aggressive spreader is generally free from serious insect or disease problems. The main concern regarding Trumpetcreeper is its invasive potential; it spreads aggressively via underground runners (suckers) and readily self-seeds. To manage this, ensure all suckers appearing outside the intended planting zone are immediately removed at the base throughout the growing season. Regular, heavy pruning helps keep the vine healthy, dense, and manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Trumpetcreeper suitable for?
The Campsis radicans is generally hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 9, allowing it to survive significant winter cold in many regions.
How large does Trumpetcreeper grow?
This vine is substantial, typically reaching heights between 25 and 40 feet, with a spread ranging from 5 to 10 feet due to its tendency to send out runners.
What sun exposure does Campsis radicans need?
Trumpetcreeper requires full sun to part shade, but gardeners should maximize sun exposure to ensure excellent flowering performance.
When does Trumpetcreeper bloom?
This vine typically blooms around July, showcasing showy flowers described as orange and scarlet.
Conclusion
The Trumpetcreeper (Campsis radicans) offers unparalleled speed and drama in vertical gardening, providing essential late-season nectar for hummingbirds. While its high maintenance and aggressive spread demand diligent monitoring, its hardiness in zones 4-9 and drought tolerance make it invaluable in suitable settings. Before planting, assess your space carefully, ensure you have sturdy support, and plan for regular pruning of this powerful Campsis radicans.
Companion Planting
When utilizing Trumpetcreeper in a naturalized setting, consider companion plants that thrive in similar sun and moisture conditions but occupy different structural layers. Near the base, try robust, moderate-sized shrubs like elderberry (Sambucus) or native grasses that can tolerate some light competition. Avoid placing delicate perennials near the base, as the suckers from the vine can quickly overwhelm them. Its vigorous nature means it pairs well with other tough natives in large woodland border plantings where containment is less of a concern.
Wildlife Benefits
One of the greatest assets of the Trumpetcreeper is its exceptional value to local wildlife, specifically hummingbirds. The long, tubular, nectar-rich flowers are perfectly shaped for avian visitors, making it a cornerstone plant for any dedicated hummingbird garden. Furthermore, the persistent seed pods offer a food source later in the season after the main blooms fade. Its dense foliage also provides excellent nesting and hiding cover for various small birds throughout the year, complementing its established role in supporting local fauna.
