Family: Bignoniaceae
Common Name: Trumpet-creeper

Originally from China and North America, these deciduous, woody climbers produce very showy, orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers in late summer. Attractive and hardy, they are suitable for growing near walls or fences.

Species

C. grandiflora, Chinese trumpet-creeper, is the most popular species, with gaudy, dark orange flowers up to 8 cm (3 in) across. It usually grows to a height of 6 m (20 ft) but in subtropical areas it can grow to 15 m (50 ft). The most vigorous of the species, it can become invasive.

C. radicans, trumpet-vine, is similar, but it has slightly smaller flowers.

C. x tagliabuana is a hybrid group of the two major species described above. The most popular cultivar of this hybrid is 'Madame Galen' which is very vigorous and has dark apricot-coloured flowers and deep green, pinnate foliage.

Cultivation

Campsis is best grown against a warm, sunny wall. Any well-drained, yet moisture-retentive soil is suitable. Campsis need regular pruning in late winter. Side shoots are cut back to within three or tour buds of the main woody framework. Plants cling to walls by means of aerial roots but they may need additional support, especially when young. Propagate from root cuttings in winter or by layering in the spring.

Climate

Zone 4 for most, but zone 7 for C. grandiflora.