Campsis grandiflora

Trumpet Creeper is a deciduous vine climbing by aerial or adventitious rootlets and reaching a length of 30 feet.. In its native China, Trumpet Creeper can commonly be found on hillsides and roadsides, climbing into trees and growing on rocks. It has foliage from June to October and large, deep orange to red flowers that blossom on new growth in summer. It is a relatively hardy plant and is not frost tender.

Trumpet Creeper grows rapidly, although it is less aggressive than C. radicans and has fewer rootlets. Trumpet Creeper will need support as it climbs, partly twining with few aerial roots. It grows well in well-drained loam or moist soil in a sunny position, but does not tolerate shade. It also tolerates maritime exposure and is mildly resistant to damage from deer. Trumpet Creeper requires a sunny location or hot summers for best flowering. These plants can take some years to settle down before they start to flower. Plants can be pruned like grapes, which is best done in the spring. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). To stimulate new flower blossoms, you should remove spent flowers to avoid fruit. Trumpet Creeper will scramble on the ground and form an effective ground cover, rooting along the branches.

The Creeper species typically found in trade are likely to be Campsis x tagliabuana, a hybrid between C. grandiflora and C. radicans. Campsis, the genus name, comes from the Greek word kampe meaning bent in reference to the bent stamens on plant flowers. Grandiflora comes from the Latin words grandis meaning large and floreo meaning to bloom in reference to flower size.

Diseases, Pests and Other Problems:

No known serious pest or disease disease problems. The fresh young growth in spring is often damaged by late frosts and may need protection. Plants can spread somewhat aggressively, particularly in rich, fertile soils, by suckering from underground runners.