Trumpet Vines: A Guide to Their Types and Uses
Trumpet vines are beautiful flowering plants that can add a splash of color to any garden. They’re also relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners. In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of trumpet vines, their growing requirements, and how to use them in your landscape.
Types of Trumpet Vines
There are several different types of trumpet vines, each with its own unique characteristics. The most common type is Campsis radicans, also known as trumpet creeper. This vine can grow up to 40 feet long and produces bright orange trumpet-shaped flowers in the summer. It is native to the southeastern United States but can be grown in most parts of North America.
Another popular type of trumpet vine is Campsis grandiflora, also called Chinese trumpet creeper. This vine is native to China and Japan and produces large, showy flowers in late summer and autumn. It is not as hardy as Campsis radicans and can only be grown in zones 7-9.
Campsis tagliabuana is a hybrid of Campsis radicans and Campsis grandiflora. It is hardy to zone 7 and produces flowers that are a mix of orange and yellow.
Bignonia capriolata, also called crossvine, is a cousin to the common trumpet creeper. It is a smaller vine, growing only up to 20 feet long. It produces smaller flowers than the trumpet creeper, but they are still very showy. Crossvine is native to the southeastern United States and can be grown in zones 5-9.
Brugmansia, also called angel’s trumpet, is not a true trumpet vine, but it is often included in this group because of its trumpet-shaped flowers. Angel’s trumpet is a shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It produces large, showy flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red. Angel’s trumpet is native to South America and can be grown in zones 9-11.
Growing Trumpet Vines
Trumpet vines are relatively easy to grow. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They are drought tolerant and can withstand periods of neglect.
To plant a trumpet vine, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the vine in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the vine deeply and mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
Trumpet vines are vigorous growers and can quickly cover a fence or trellis. They can also be trained to grow up a wall or other structure. To train a trumpet vine, simply attach the vine to the structure using wire or twine.
Pruning Trumpet Vines
Trumpet vines require minimal pruning. However, you may need to prune them occasionally to control their growth or to remove dead or diseased branches. The best time to prune trumpet vines is in late winter or early spring, before they start to grow new leaves.
To prune a trumpet vine, simply cut back the stems to the desired length. You can also remove any dead or diseased branches.
Using Trumpet Vines in the Landscape
Trumpet vines are a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways in the landscape. They can be grown on a fence or trellis, trained to grow up a wall or other structure, or used as a groundcover.
Trumpet vines are also a great choice for attracting pollinators to your garden. The flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
Conclusion
Trumpet vines are a beautiful and easy-to-care-for addition to any garden. With their showy flowers and vigorous growth habit, they are sure to add a touch of color and excitement to your landscape.
