How to Grow Crossvine
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Crossvine
Bignonia capreolata
vineCrossvine is a vigorous, woody climbing vine native to the southeastern United States, known for its stunning tubular flowers that bloom in shades of red-orange to yellow. The plant gets its name from the cross-shaped pattern visible when the stems are cut in cross-section. It's an excellent ornamental vine for trellises, arbors, and fences, offering both spring flowers and attractive evergreen foliage in mild climates.
When should you plant Crossvine in your zone?
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Example Crossvine timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Crossvine
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 Crossvine
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Crossvine dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-10; most vigorous in zones 7-9
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Get my Crossvine timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 6-12 monthsYoung vines develop a root system and initial stem growth with small leaves
Water consistently to encourage root development. Provide sturdy support structure. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Vegetative Growth
Year 2-3Vine extends rapidly, developing more stem length and leaf coverage, climbing and clinging via disk-tipped tendrils
Train vines onto support structure. Prune lightly to direct growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems. Continue regular watering.
Flowering
March-June (spring), occasionally reflowering in fallTubular, 2-3 inch long flowers appear in clusters (axillary racemes), typically red-orange to orange-yellow, sometimes with contrasting throats
Provide adequate water and sunlight to support blooming. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flowers in favor of foliage. Flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Seed Pod Development
June-OctoberAfter flowers fade, long, flat seed pods (capsules) develop, maturing to brown and becoming decorative in their own right
Leave pods on plant for winter interest and to self-seed if desired. Prune back excessive growth in late winter before new growth begins.
Dormancy/Maintenance
November-FebruaryIn cooler zones, foliage may turn bronze or burgundy and partially drop; in mild climates, remains evergreen
Perform major pruning in late winter (February-March) to shape plant and remove winter damage. No watering needed during dormancy unless drought occurs.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Increase humidity around plant.
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Prune affected branches; apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap in early spring before new growth.
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Improve air circulation by pruning; spray with fungicide containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate if needed. Avoid wetting foliage.
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Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Use yellow sticky traps to monitor populations.
Uses
Floral arrangements and garnishes
CulinaryThe striking tubular flowers can be used fresh in floral arrangements and as unique, edible garnishes for special dishes, offering visual interest and a delicate, slightly sweet flavor. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator support
WildlifeCrossvine flowers are a primary nectar source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. A mature vine can support multiple hummingbirds during breeding season. [source]
Ornamental shade and screening
HouseholdFast-growing crossvine rapidly covers trellises, pergolas, fences, and unsightly views, providing living shade and privacy while offering spring color and evergreen appeal in mild climates. [source]
Traditional herbal medicine
MedicinalNative Americans historically used crossvine root and stem bark in tea form to treat various ailments, including respiratory issues and arthritis, though modern clinical evidence is limited. [source]
Natural dye production
CraftThe flowers and plant material can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, yielding orange, yellow, and rust tones depending on mordants used. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Crossvine is grown ornamentally rather than harvested. Enjoy the flowers during bloom season (spring). Cut flowers can be brought indoors and last 1-2 weeks in water. Seed pods can be harvested in fall if you wish to propagate new plants; allow pods to dry completely, then extract seeds.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Crossvine gets its name from the distinctive cross-shaped pattern visible when you cut the stem in cross-section—a feature that makes it useful for identification in the field.
- 🌱 The vine's disk-tipped tendrils are modified stem tips that function like adhesive suction cups, allowing it to cling to rough surfaces without twining or wrapping.
- 🌱 In its native southeastern habitat, crossvine blooms are one of the earliest food sources for ruby-throated hummingbirds returning from migration in early spring.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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