Trumpet Vine
Campsis radicans
Trumpet vine is the single most attractive plant for ruby-throated hummingbirds in the eastern US — the flower's geometry, depth, and color saturation evolved specifically for hummingbird pollination over millions of years.
How to care for trumpet vine
Plant ONLY where you can mow ALL escape suckers — trumpet vine sends underground runners 50+ ft from the original plant and is nearly impossible to remove once established. The hummingbird draw is unmatched though.
Garden uses & design ideas
Best garden use
Give it a trellis, arbor, fence, or wall where vertical growth can soften hard edges without crowding nearby plants.
Pair it with
Honeysuckle, Wisteria (NOT — they'll wrestle) make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.
Layout tip
Match it with full sun exposure, place it in a moderate-water bed where soil can stay evenly damp but not soggy, and check USDA zones 4-9 before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 20-40 ft long (climbing).
Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.
Companion plants
Trumpet Vine grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.
Common pests & problems
Where it grows best
Native to Southeastern United States; thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Frequently asked about trumpet vine
What USDA zones does Trumpet Vine grow in?+
Trumpet Vine is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.
How much sun does Trumpet Vine need?+
Trumpet Vine prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.
How often should I water Trumpet Vine?+
Trumpet Vine has moderate water needs. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Plant ONLY where you can mow ALL escape suckers — trumpet vine sends underground runners 50+ ft from the original plant and is nearly impossible to remove once established. The hummingbird draw is unmatched though.
How big does Trumpet Vine get?+
Trumpet Vine reaches a mature size of 20-40 ft long (climbing). Growth rate is fast, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.
What plants grow well with Trumpet Vine?+
Trumpet Vine pairs well with Honeysuckle, Wisteria (NOT — they'll wrestle). These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.
What pests affect Trumpet Vine?+
Common Trumpet Vine problems include essentially pest-free; deer-resistant. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.
When does Trumpet Vine bloom?+
Trumpet Vine blooms in mid to late summer in orange-red trumpet flowers (3 in long). Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.
More plants to design with
Pair well with trumpet vine or suit the same spot.
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