Campsis radicans 'Flava Yellow' is a vigorous deciduous climbing vine known for its luminous golden yellow trumpet shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies in summer. Its fast growth and self clinging aerial rootlets make it ideal for covering fences, arbors, or walls in full sun. The glossy pinnate foliage creates a lush tropical effect while its drought tolerance and deer resistance offer easy care appeal.
Height & Spread: 20 - 30 ft x 6 - 10 ft
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average, well drained soil; tolerates poor soils once established
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once mature
Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant due to tough, fibrous foliage
Native Status
Native to the southeastern United States. Campsis radicans is a North American native species, and 'Flava Yellow' is a cultivated yellow flowering form bred for ornamental purposes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Hummingbirds
- Highly attractive to Ruby Throated Hummingbirds due to its tubular flowers filled with nectar.
Butterflies
- Visited by Eastern Tiger Swallowtails and Great Spangled Fritillaries for nectar in late summer.
Bees
- Supports bumblebees and carpenter bees which are able to access its deep corollas.
Birds
- Dense vine growth offers nesting shelter for wrens, finches, and cardinals in warm months.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 6 - 10 ft apart for rapid coverage of trellises or walls.
Landscape Placement:
- Perfect for sunny arbors, fences, pergolas, or as a screening vine where vertical interest and bird activity are desired.
Companion Plants
- Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light' - Upright ornamental grass adds motion and height to balance the climbing form.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Airy soft yellow daisies echo the vine’s color and soften its vigorous base.
- Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue' - Vivid blue flowers contrast dramatically and also attract hummingbirds.
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' - Aromatic purple spires offer fragrance and a color counterpoint to yellow blooms.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Golden blooms mirror the trumpet vine's flower color while adding sturdy upright texture.