How to Grow Trumpet Vine
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Trumpet Vine
Campsis radicans
vineTrumpet vine is a vigorous deciduous to semi-evergreen climbing vine known for its brilliant orange, red, or yellow trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom mid-summer through fall. It's a fast-growing native to the southeastern United States that attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators. This ornamental vine can reach 30-40 feet in height and spread widely, making it ideal for covering arbors, trellises, and fences.
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Example Trumpet Vine timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Trumpet 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 Trumpet Vine
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4b-11; most vigorous in zones 6-9
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Get my Trumpet Vine timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First yearYoung vines are small with limited branching; foliage emerges in spring
Water regularly to establish strong root system. Install sturdy support structure immediately. Prune lightly to encourage branching. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer.
Vegetative Growth
Years 2-3Rapid stem elongation with abundant dark green compound leaves; vine spreads across support structure
Tie or guide main stems along support. Prune side shoots to direct growth. Water consistently. Provide additional support as vine becomes heavy.
Flowering
Mid-July through OctoberClusters of tubular trumpet-shaped flowers in orange, red, or yellow appear at branch tips; typically begins in mid-summer (July)
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage blooms over leafy growth. Maintain consistent moisture. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Expect flowering to peak in late July-August.
Seed Pod Formation
Late August through NovemberLong, narrow green seed pods (4-8 inches) develop where flowers were; foliage begins showing fall color
Allow pods to remain if you want self-seeding or to attract birds. Remove pods if you want to prevent excessive volunteer seedlings. Reduce watering slightly.
Dormancy
December through MarchLeaves drop and vine becomes bare; stems persist for structure
Minimal care needed. Prune to remove dead or diseased wood. Heavy pruning in late winter can rejuvenate overgrown vines but may delay flowering by one year.
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 or insecticidal soap
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray with water; apply miticide or horticultural oil if severe
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Remove infested leaves and stems; prune heavily affected canes; apply insecticidal soap in early season
Uses
Hummingbird & Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeTrumpet vine's abundant nectar-rich flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds, especially ruby-throated hummingbirds. The flowers also attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it essential for wildlife gardens. [source]
Ornamental Garden Screening
HouseholdThe vigorous growth and dense foliage make trumpet vine perfect for creating privacy screens on arbors, pergolas, fences, and trellises. Its summer flowers provide spectacular curb appeal. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe bright trumpet flowers are edible with a slightly sweet taste and are sometimes used to garnish salads or as decorative elements in cocktails, though they should be used sparingly. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalNative Americans traditionally used trumpet vine for respiratory and skin conditions. Modern herbalism uses dried flowers in teas, though scientific evidence is limited and it should be used with caution. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftIndividual trumpet flowers can be cut for fresh arrangements, lasting 1-2 days in water. The vibrant colors add tropical appeal to bouquets and floral designs. [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 vine is grown for ornamental flowers rather than harvest. Flowers are best enjoyed on the vine for hummingbirds. For propagation, collect mature seed pods in fall (September-October), extract seeds, and stratify in refrigerator for 30 days before spring sowing. Alternatively, take semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or dig up root cuttings from the base of established plants.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Trumpet vine is so aggressive that it's considered invasive in some regions outside its native range, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia; it can damage wooden structures and mortar with its aerial rootlets.
- 🌱 A single trumpet vine can produce hundreds of flowers throughout the blooming season, and a well-established plant may attract dozens of hummingbirds daily during peak flowering.
- 🌱 The vine's flowers are pollinated primarily by hummingbirds rather than bees, with the flower's shape and bright orange-red color specifically evolved to attract these birds, which have excellent color vision.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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