Trumpet Vine

Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans) 

Scientific Name: Campsis radicans
Common Names: Trumpet Vine, Trumpet Creeper, Cow-Itch Vine, Hummingbird Vine

Native to: Southeastern United States
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 25 to 40 feet (as a climbing vine)
Width: 5 to 10 feet (spreads aggressively)
Winter Look: Deciduous; woody vines persist after leaf drop
Seasonal Interest: Clusters of trumpet-shaped orange to red flowers from summer to early fall; attractive green foliage during the growing season
Drought Tolerance: High; very tolerant of dry conditions once established
Soil Requirements: Adaptable to various soil types, but prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH Range: Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (6.0–8.0)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4–9
Deer Resistance: High; deer typically avoid it
Attracts: Hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
Toxicity: Sap may cause skin irritation; ingestion of plant parts can cause mild digestive upset in humans and animals
Potential Issues: Extremely vigorous growth can make it invasive; may require frequent pruning to control its spread; roots can damage structures or hardscapes if planted too close
Notes: Trumpet Vine is a robust, fast-growing climber known for its vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. Its vigorous growth makes it ideal for covering fences, arbors, and walls, but it requires careful placement due to its tendency to spread aggressively. This vine can grow without support, forming a dense ground cover, but its climbing habit is best suited for vertical structures. Regular pruning is essential to manage its growth and encourage prolific blooming. Trumpet Vine is a tough and resilient plant, thriving in a wide range of conditions, including poor soils and drought. While its beauty is undeniable, its aggressive nature means it should be planted with caution and monitored to prevent it from overwhelming other plants or structures.

I take care of a property in Burnet that has Trumpet Vine growing on their horse stables and it pops up all over the place! It can be a nightmare to stay on top of.