Campsis radicans is a vigorous deciduous vine known for its showy trumpet shaped orange to red flowers that bloom throughout summer and attract hummingbirds in abundance. Fast growing and ideal for covering fences, arbors, or walls with a lush tropical appearance. Its aerial rootlets allow it to cling to structures and its bold foliage offers seasonal screening and visual impact.
Height & Spread: 20 - 30 ft x 6 - 10 ft
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; tolerates a range of soils including clay and sand
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Generally resistant due to bitter foliage
Native Status
Native to the southeastern United States, Campsis radicans naturally occurs in woodland edges, streambanks, and open thickets, and is well adapted to a variety of temperate regions.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Hummingbirds
- Long tubular red orange blooms are a magnet for Ruby Throated Hummingbirds throughout the summer months.
Bees
- Visited by carpenter bees and long tongued bumblebees which gather nectar from the deep flowers.
Butterflies
- Provides nectar for swallowtails and other large butterflies including Spicebush Swallowtails and Red Admirals.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports predatory wasps and hoverflies which help manage garden pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 6 - 10 ft of horizontal space for lateral spread; provide vertical support for climbing habit.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for pergolas, fences, arbors, and stone walls where height and wildlife support are desired.
Companion Plants
- Lonicera sempervirens (Coral Honeysuckle) - Twining vine with coral red tubular blooms that complement Campsis and bloom over a long season.
- Eupatorium dubium 'Little Joe' - Upright clusters of lavender pink flowers bloom in sync and support butterflies below the vine’s canopy.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Soft lavender blooms with fragrant foliage attract pollinators and blend well with Campsis in wildlife borders.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' - Feathery yellow flower sprays emerge in late summer for vivid contrast beneath climbing trumpet vine.
- Clematis virginiana - Native clematis with white blooms intermingles with trumpet vine for a layered flowering display.