Trumpet Creeper
Campsis radicansUSDA | Grow Zone
4-9Outdoors all year in zones 4 to 9. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- Deeply, every 1-2 weeks
- Humidity
- Moderate humidity
- Temperature
- 60-80°F (15-27°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Fast
- Mature size
- 30-40 ft tall, 10-20 ft wide
Trumpet Creeper, or Campsis radicans, is a vigorous vine known for its stunning trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds. Native to the southeastern United States, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a popular choice for gardeners seeking vibrant color and wildlife attraction.
Ask Vesper about Trumpet Creeper
Ideal temperature
60-80°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 30-40 ft tall, 10-20 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Trumpet Creeper prefers well-drained soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently.
Water every 1-2 weeks during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering significantly. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
It can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers. Ideal placement includes south or west-facing walls or fences where it can receive ample sunlight throughout the day.
Soil
Campsis radicans prefers a loamy, well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
A potting mix that contains peat, perlite, and compost is recommended to ensure good drainage and nutrient availability. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain water.
Humidity
This plant is adaptable to various humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves or place a humidifier nearby. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf edges and wilting.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Trumpet Creeper is 60-80°F (15-27°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, tolerating cold down to -20°F (-29°C) and heat up to 100°F (38°C). During extreme temperatures, provide some shade or protection as needed.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applying it every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
In fall, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote root growth. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor flowering.
Pruning
Prune Trumpet Creeper in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or damaged wood and to shape the plant. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms throughout the season.
Repotting
Repot Trumpet Creeper every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Trumpet Creeper can be propagated through stem cuttings, seeds, or division.
For stem cuttings, take 6-8 inch cuttings in late spring, remove lower leaves, and place them in a moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop. Seeds can be sown in spring after stratification. Division is best done in early spring.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Adjust watering habits and consider fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer.
Root rot
Why it happens
Root rot is typically caused by overly wet soil and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency. Remove affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
Pest infestations (aphids, spider mites)
Why it happens
Pests can be attracted to stressed plants or those with low humidity.
How to fix it
Inspect regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient sunlight or nutrient deficiency can lead to fewer blooms.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives full sun and fertilize appropriately to encourage blooming.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Wilting may indicate under-watering or root issues.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and adjust watering. Inspect roots for rot or damage.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead or damaged wood and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to promote new growth.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent watering and monitor for pests. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering and switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer to support root development for winter.
Winter
In winter, protect the plant from extreme cold by covering the base with mulch and reduce watering significantly.
Toxicity & Safety
Trumpet Creeper is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Good to know
How often should I water my Trumpet Creeper?
Water your Trumpet Creeper every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Adjust frequency based on weather conditions.
Why are my Trumpet Creeper leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check your watering schedule and consider fertilizing if necessary.
What is the best way to propagate Trumpet Creeper?
The best methods for propagating Trumpet Creeper are through stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings should be taken in late spring, while seeds require stratification before sowing.
When should I prune my Trumpet Creeper?
Prune your Trumpet Creeper in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps maintain its shape and encourages blooming.
What pests should I watch for on my Trumpet Creeper?
Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plant and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How can I encourage more blooms on my Trumpet Creeper?
To encourage more blooms, ensure your plant receives full sun and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Is Trumpet Creeper invasive?
Yes, Trumpet Creeper can be invasive in some regions due to its vigorous growth. Regular pruning and management can help control its spread.
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