Trumpet Vine
Trumpet vine is the common name most often used for *Campsis radicans*, a vigorous deciduous woody vine in the family Bignoniaceae.
Trumpet vine is the common name most often used for *Campsis radicans*, a vigorous deciduous woody vine in the family Bignoniaceae. Native to eastern and southeastern North America, it is grown for its showy trumpet-shaped orange to red flowers and is also known for its aggressive growth and aerial rootlets.
Taxonomy and naming
Trumpet vine usually refers to *Campsis radicans*, a species in the trumpet vine family Bignoniaceae. The name is also sometimes used more broadly for the genus *Campsis*, which includes two species of woody climbers.
Description
The plant is a vigorous, deciduous vine that can reach about 10 metres in height. It has compound leaves, aerial rootlets, and prominent trumpet-shaped flowers that are typically orange to reddish-orange.
Distribution and habitat
*Campsis radicans* is native to eastern and southeastern North America and grows in woodlands, riverbanks, floodplains, and similar habitats. It has also been naturalized beyond its native range.
Cultivation and ecology
Trumpet vine is a popular ornamental plant because of its colourful summer flowers and appeal to hummingbirds. It is also noted for aggressive growth, which can make it difficult to manage in gardens.
Key facts
- Trumpet vine is commonly identified with *Campsis radicans*, though the name can also refer to the genus *Campsis*.
- It is native to eastern and southeastern North America and has become naturalized in other regions.
- The plant is a fast-growing, deciduous woody vine that climbs by aerial rootlets.
- Its flowers are large, tubular, and trumpet-shaped, often attracting hummingbirds.
- It can spread aggressively and may produce suckers and root runners.
Trumpet vine is grown as an ornamental in Canadian gardens in some regions, but its hardiness and aggressive growth can make it a management concern where it is planted.
Frequently asked questions
What is trumpet vine?
Where is trumpet vine native to?
How tall can trumpet vine grow?
What colour are the flowers?
Is trumpet vine invasive?
Why is it popular with gardeners?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Campsis_radicansSupports: Common name trumpet vine; scientific name *Campsis radicans*; native range; growth form; height; flower description.
- Missouri Botanical Garden — https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b840Supports: Growth habit, clinging aerial rootlets, native range, and ornamental use.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/trumpet-vineSupports: Species identification, native range, and flower characteristics.
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden — https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/the-garden/plant-list/campsis-radicans/Supports: Genus context, family, native range, and plant description.
- Oregon State University — https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/campsis-radicansSupports: Common names, flower and fruit description, hardiness, and historical cultivation.
- Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle — https://www.mnhn.fr/en/trumpet-vineSupports: Deciduous woody vine description, flower colour, fruit, native range, and ornamental use.