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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Trumpet Vine is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Trumpet Vine with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
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. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.