A vigorous, self-clinging deciduous climber bearing bold clusters of orange-red trumpet flowers through summer that draw nectar-feeding birds. Robust and showy, but suckering and best given firm support.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 10 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Trumpet Vine
Botanically, Campsis radicans is a fast-growing climber in the Bignoniaceae family. It reaches around 10 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Orange and red flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Trumpet Vine
Trumpet Vine suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Trumpet Vine does best in loamy, clay and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Trumpet Vine performs well with relatively little water once established. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Trumpet Vine after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Trumpet Vine in the garden
Trumpet Vine earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and a fast screen or informal hedge.
Companion planting & design
Combine Trumpet Vine with plants that share its preference for happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle. Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Trumpet Vine
Plant Sale lists Trumpet Vine as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
