Trumpet creeper - Campsis radicans (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Trumpet creeper

Also known as: Cow itch vine, Trumpet vine

The trumpet creeper is a flowering plant that climbs as it grows. It gets its nickname from its bright flowers, which are shaped like long trumpet bells. The shape matches them well with the hummingbirds that love to visit for the nectar. The trumpet creeper is originally native to eastern North America.

Scientific classification

Species

Trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

6 m to 12 m

Plant Height

1.2 m to 3 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Orange, Red, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Red, Orange

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Trumpet creeper

Attributes of Trumpet creeper

Growth Rate

Exhibiting rapid growth in Spring and Summer, trumpet creeper showcases robust expansion in leaf production and vine length. Its quick proliferation, possibly adding several meters in these seasons, fosters a dense coverage ideal for wall-climbing or trellising. Heightened growth speed also accelerates flower formation, yielding vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms.

Distribution of Trumpet creeper

Distribution Map

Trumpet creeper is native to the eastern United States, where it largely grows in woodland areas and on riverbanks. This ornamental garden plant has been naturalized in a further range in the Americas, and is sometimes also found in Europe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Low woods, thickets

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Trumpet creeper is a popular plant in Mediterranean gardens and can be planted for erosion control or as a climbing plant on fences, walls, and trellises. The trumpet creeper is prized for its long-lasting trumpet flowers. It looks particularly wonderful when accompanied by Purple dome New England asters, African lilies, English lavender, and Alexander yellow loosestrife.

Symbolism

Vitality, patience, a fresh start

Interesting Facts

It took genetic study to determine the proper classification of trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans). Before such study, the plant was at various times classified as a type of jasmine, honeysuckle, bellflower, dogbane, and bigonia.

Name Story

Trumpet creeper: With its strong climbing capability, it is often seen climbing the walls enveloping the whole area or planted along the hedges and arches. Different from most evergreen climbing plants, it actually grows beautiful flowers that look like a trumpet. Hence, it is called the trumpet creeper.

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Toxicity

Trumpet creeper is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion causes gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea. Contact with sap causes skin irritation. Symptoms: stomach pain or indigestion. Cat owners: monitor pets; symptoms may include physical discomfort. Dog owners: prevent access; seek immediate veterinary care if ingested.

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Quickly Identify Trumpet creeper

Opposite compound leaves with 7-11 elliptic leaflets up to 4 inches long.

Red trumpet-shaped flowers in clusters of 4-12, attracting hummingbirds.

Elongated bean-like seed capsules that split open, releasing 2-winged seeds for wind dispersal.

Trunk with pale brown scaly bark, developing furrowed ridges and grooves over time.

Vigorous growth habit with multiple woody stems and small aerial rootlets for adherence.

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Care Guide for Trumpet creeper

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from woodlands and riverbanks, trumpet creeper thrives in humid environments. As a drought-tolerant species, it requires weekly watering. Primarily grown outdoors, trumpet creeper flourishes with consistently moist soil during its active growing season.

Fertilize: For trumpet creeper, use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 NPK) bi-monthly during growing seasons, applying 2 pounds per 100 square feet. Water after application to distribute nutrients, and avoid over-fertilization. Adjust based on soil tests; young plants may need more frequent feeding.

Pruning: Trumpet creeper is a vigorous climber known for its trumpet-shaped blooms. Prune in early spring to remove dead or weak stems, control size, and promote flowering. This process enhances air circulation, reduces disease risk, and stimulates growth. Use clean, sharp tools for effective pruning.

Propagation: Trumpet creeper can be propagated via cuttings from healthy semi-hardwood stems with multiple leaf nodes. Cut at a 45-degree angle, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining mix, keeping moist and shaded until rooted. This produces a genetically identical new plant.

Repotting: Repot trumpet creeper every 2-3 years in early spring using a spacious container to support growth. After repotting, provide moderate water and indirect light. Ensure sturdy support, like a trellis, for its climbing habits.

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Images of Trumpet creeper

Attributes of Trumpet creeper

Distribution of Trumpet creeper

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Trumpet creeper

Care Guide for Trumpet creeper

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