How to Grow Trumpet Creeper
Trumpet Creeper
Campsis radicans
vineTrumpet creeper is a vigorous, deciduous woody vine known for its vibrant tubular orange and red flowers that bloom throughout summer and attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Native to the southeastern United States, it climbs via aerial rootlets and can quickly cover fences, arbors, and walls. The plant is extremely hardy, fast-growing, and can become invasive if not properly managed.
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Example Trumpet Creeper timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Trumpet Creeper
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 Trumpet Creeper
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Trumpet Creeper dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9; more vigorous in warmer zones
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Establishment
Year 1Young vine with tender green stems and small leaves; minimal growth in first year
Water regularly to establish deep roots. Provide sturdy support structure. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Be patient—growth accelerates in year 2.
Vegetative Growth
Years 1-2, especially year 2-3Rapid stem elongation with compound leaves (9-11 leaflets per leaf); vine can grow 3+ feet per year
Train vines onto support as they grow. Prune to direct growth and prevent tangling. Water moderately during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly—too much nitrogen reduces flowering.
Flowering
Mid-June through September in most zonesBright orange-red tubular flowers in clusters; blooms typically 2-4 inches long; heavy flowering once established
Flowers appear on new growth, so pruning can delay flowering. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Provide consistent moisture during bloom season. No fertilizer needed at this stage.
Fruiting & Seed Development
Late August through OctoberLong, narrow seed pods (6-8 inches) develop after flowers fade; pods turn brown and split open to release winged seeds
Remove seed pods if you want to prevent volunteer seedlings from spreading. Allow some pods to mature if you wish to collect seeds for propagation. Pods are non-edible.
Dormancy
November through MarchDeciduous vine loses all leaves in fall; woody stems remain visible on support structure
Prune in late winter (February-March) before new growth. Remove dead wood and thin out tangled stems. This is the best time for major pruning since flowers form on new growth.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick in early morning; use row covers on young plants; apply neem oil if severe; encourage native parasitic wasps
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap for heavy infestations; introduce ladybugs or lacewings
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Increase humidity with misting; spray with water; neem oil in severe cases
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Prune affected branches; horticultural oil spray in dormant season; encourage natural predators
Uses
Hummingbird Magnet
WildlifeThe tubular flowers are specifically adapted for hummingbird pollination and provide abundant nectar from mid-summer through fall. Trumpet creeper is one of the most reliable native plants for attracting ruby-throated hummingbirds to gardens. [source]
Living Privacy Screen & Ornamental Coverage
CraftFast-growing vine quickly covers fences, arbors, pergolas, and unsightly structures while providing seasonal flowers and interest. Dense foliage creates excellent privacy screening during growing season. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeFlowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects in addition to hummingbirds. Seed pods provide food for migrating birds in fall and winter. [source]
Traditional Folk Medicine
MedicinalVarious parts of trumpet creeper have been used in traditional and Native American medicine for respiratory conditions and inflammation, though scientific evidence is limited. Modern herbal use is minimal and should only be under professional guidance. [source]
Erosion Control & Slope Stabilization
HouseholdDense root system and vigorous growth help stabilize steep banks and slopes while preventing soil erosion. Aerial rootlets cling to surfaces without damaging most structures. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Trumpet creeper is not harvested for food or traditional herbal use. For seed collection: allow pods to fully mature and dry on the vine (September-October), then collect dried pods, split open, and store seeds in cool, dry location for spring sowing. Cut flowers can be enjoyed in arrangements for 1-2 days if harvested in early morning.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Trumpet creeper's bright orange-red flowers are virtually invisible to most insects but appear brilliant to hummingbirds, which can see into the ultraviolet spectrum. The tubular shape perfectly matches the hummingbird's beak length.
- 🌱 Native to the southeastern United States, trumpet creeper has naturalized across much of North America and Europe, where it is sometimes considered invasive due to its aggressive growth and prolific seed production.
- 🌱 The vine climbs using adhesive aerial rootlets (not tendrils) that allow it to cling to rough surfaces like brick, bark, and stone. These rootlets can be difficult to remove and may leave marks on some surfaces.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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