How to Grow Cross Vine
Cross Vine
Bignonia capreolata
vineCross Vine is a vigorous, woody evergreen to semi-deciduous vine native to the southeastern United States, prized for its showy tubular flowers and adhesive disk tendrils. It produces clusters of reddish-orange to yellow flowers in spring and summer, followed by long seed pods. The vine is an excellent choice for covering trellises, fences, and arbors, and attracts hummingbirds and bees.
When should you plant Cross Vine in your zone?
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Example Cross Vine timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cross Vine
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Cross Vine
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Cross Vine dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-9, with some cultivars hardy to zone 5
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Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung vine develops strong root system and initial stem growth; foliage is light green and tender
Water regularly and consistently. Provide sturdy support structure. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate temperature. Avoid fertilizing excessively.
Vegetative Growth
6-18 monthsVine develops multiple stems and branches, producing dense foliage with glossy, compound leaves and prominent tendrils that cling to support
Guide growth along trellis or structure using soft ties if needed. Prune to shape and encourage branching. Remove dead or diseased wood.
Pre-flowering
2-4 weeks before floweringVine becomes woody and mature; leaf production slows as plant redirects energy toward flower bud formation
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; apply balanced or bloom-promoting fertilizer. Ensure adequate sunlight. Thin crowded growth to improve air circulation.
Flowering
4-10 weeks (spring through early summer)Clusters of tubular flowers (reddish-orange, yellow, or bicolor) appear along stems; hummingbirds and bees visit flowers
Maintain consistent moisture. Avoid heavy pruning during this stage. Dead-head spent flowers to encourage continued blooming if desired, though not necessary.
Seed Pod & Maturity
8-12 weeksFlowers fade and elongated, flattened seed pods develop; vine continues growth and can be evergreen through mild winters
Allow pods to dry on plant if seeds are desired. Reduce watering slightly. Prepare for dormancy in colder zones; provide mulch protection in zone 6.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or horticultural oil; increase humidity; ensure adequate irrigation to reduce stress
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Prune affected stems; apply horticultural oil in dormant season; insecticidal soap for active infestations
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Hand-pick if light infestation; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) for heavy populations; allow natural predators to control
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Remove affected foliage; apply neem oil if widespread; encourage beneficial insects
Uses
Hummingbird & Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeCross Vine produces nectar-rich flowers that attract hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators throughout its long flowering season. It is an excellent native choice for supporting wildlife in southeastern gardens. [source]
Fast-Growing Privacy Screen & Shade
HouseholdThe vigorous vine quickly covers trellises, arbors, pergolas, and fences, providing natural screening and filtered shade. Its evergreen or semi-evergreen foliage offers year-round structure. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftThe bright, exotic-looking flower clusters can be cut for fresh floral arrangements, adding tropical appeal to indoor displays. Flowers last several days in water. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalNative Americans traditionally used Cross Vine (roots and bark) as a remedy for fever and respiratory ailments. Modern research on bioactive compounds is ongoing but not conclusive for medical treatment. [source]
Native Plant Habitat Value
WildlifeAs a southeastern native, Cross Vine supports local ecosystems, providing food and shelter for native insects and birds, and plays a role in pollinator conservation. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cross Vine is grown as an ornamental and not typically harvested. However, mature seed pods can be collected in fall and dried for seed propagation. For propagation purposes, cut 4-6 inch softwood cuttings in summer (June-July) from new growth, treat with rooting hormone, and root in moist perlite or peat moss under high humidity. Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken in late summer.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Cross Vine' comes from the distinctive cross-shaped mark visible when the stem is cut in cross-section.
- 🌱 Cross Vine uses adhesive disk tendrils to climb—similar to a gecko's foot—allowing it to cling tightly to rough surfaces without damaging them.
- 🌱 In the warmer parts of its range, Cross Vine is evergreen and can climb 30-50 feet or more when given substantial support, though it is easily controlled by pruning.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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