Campsis
( KAMP - siss )
At-A-Glance Information
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Commonly called Trumpet Creeper or Trumpet Vine, this genus of semi-evergreen to deciduous vines needs full sun to partial shade and moderate to regular waterings. These vines, which bloom in midsummer to fall, will attract birds to your garden. Leaves are glossy and green, and flowers appear in clusters at branch tips. Stems will cling to structures using rootlets, though they can become quite heavy, and peel off their climbing structures under their own weight. They are reasonably hardy vines, and are commonly grown on sturdy structures like trellises or gazebos.
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Campsis Species and Varietals
The genus Campsis includes two species and one hybrid, and is a member of the plant family Bignoniaceae. The best growing zones for Campsis vary, depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
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Campsis grandiflora (Bignonia chinensis) (Chinese Trumpet Creeper) This vine, hardy in zones 4-24, is not as vigorous as its American relative, though flowers are slightly larger and more red-flushed. Reaches 30 feet in length. |
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Campsis radicans (Bignonia radicans) (Common Trumpet Creeper) This vine grows best in zones 1-21 and is native to the Eastern United States. Grown commonly in cold-winter areas where it will die to the ground in freezing temperatures, but bounce back in springtime. Flowers are orange and scarlet. Vigorous grower to 40 feet or more in length. Varieties include 'Balboa Sunset' (with dark red flowers) and 'Flava' (with yellow blooms and lighter-green leaves). |
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Campsis x tagliabuana This species is a hybrid between Campsis radicans and Campsis grandiflora, and grows best in zones 3b-24. Varietals include 'Mme Galen' (with salmon-red flowers) and 'Indian Summer' (with salmon blooms that have reddish-orange throats). |
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Caring for Campsis
These plants grow vigorously; in each dormant season it is a good practice to prune by shortening some branches and thinning others. When the plant produces new shoots, pinch back to encourage a bushier growth. These plants spread via suckering roots, so pull up any unwanted volunteers when they appear. Older plants can become unmanageable, but they can be cut all the way back to the ground if needed; they will bounce back in spring.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
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A field of thea sinensis
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Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'
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Videos
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A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 218, Campsis
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