Common Trumpet Vine

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

20 - 30 Feet

Mature Spread

20 - 30 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

Reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet, Common Trumpet Vine, Cow Vine, Trumpet Creeper, or Campsis Radicans, is a deciduous woody vine that can spread up to 40 feet in a single season. Bursting forth in midsummer to fall with continual blooms and gorgeous color, the flowers of the Common Trumpet are 3-inch long orange tubes with scarlet lobes flaring 2 inches wide. The foliage of the Trumpet Vine is equally stunning. Each glossy, green leaf has up to 11 delicate leaflets, and the stems have aerial rootlets that cling to a variety of surfaces. It is the perfect low-maintenance option for anyone looking for a long summer bloomer with a tropical vibe.

Native to the eastern United States, this American Beauties Native Plant is an aggressive grower, widely used in a variety of climates. It may take time for your Trumpet Vine to flower, but when it does, its sweet nectar will attract hummingbirds and other beneficial pollinators. The Trumpet Vine spreads by suckering roots, and its bushy, thick growth is also a splendid home for native songbirds. It is also a larval host for the Trumpet Vine Sphinx Moth. 

Common Trumpet Vine Care

Full sun is ideal for the Trumpet Vine, and it can grow in almost any type of soil. It is tolerant of hot, dry areas, as well as cold areas with heavy frost. After being established, Trumpet Vines rarely need watering, especially if they are near an irrigated area or lawn. Before planting in spring or early fall, choose a location with a sturdy support structure.

Unless they are pruned and tied to a supportive surface, mature Trumpet Vines may become top heavy and pull away. During the dormant season, you should shorten and thin the branches. Prune your Trumpet Vine by cutting back branches to a few buds to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Pinching back shoot tips in the summer will also help to keep plants bushy. If the plant has become unmanageable, it is okay to cut it to the ground in the spring before new growth begins, and start over training a few strong stems. 

Even though the Common Trumpet Vine is widely used in cold areas, it is best to be aware that deep freeze will kill it to the ground. If that happens, don’t panic. New stems will grow again quickly. 

Common Trumpet Vine Spacing

The bright orange trumpet flowers lend even cool gardens a tropical flair. Trumpet Vine is an excellent choice for covering an arbor or creating a natural, green wall. Your Common Trumpet Vine will need a lot of space and should be planted at least 8 to 12 feet apart, especially in warm climates.