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Vine

Campsis

Campsis radicans

Trumpet VineTrumpet CreeperCow VineHummingbird VineFoxglove Vine

Campsis is a vigorous climbing vine with vibrant orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds, symbolizing resilience, ambition, and reaching new heights.

Plant Family

Bignoniaceae (Trumpet Vine family)

Blooming

Summer to early fall (June-September)

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Vibrant Campsis trumpet vine flowers displaying their characteristic orange-red tubular blooms
Vibrant Campsis trumpet vine flowers displaying their characteristic orange-red tubular blooms

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Resilience
Ambition
Overcoming adversity
Reaching new heights
Persistence
Bold growth

Perfect For

Expressions of determinationEncouragement for ambitious goalsCelebrating perseveranceHummingbird garden dedications

Color Meanings

Orange-red:Fiery determination and passionate ambition
Orange:Enthusiastic growth and warm energy
Red:Bold courage and unstoppable drive

Similar flowers: kalmias and rockroses also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Represents resilience and overcoming adversity, with its climbing nature signifying ambition and reaching new heights. Symbol of unstoppable growth and the ability to thrive despite challenges. Popular in wildlife gardens for attracting hummingbirds and beneficial pollinators.

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 3-4 inches long (7-10 cm), trumpet-shaped
Plant Size: Climbing vine up to 30+ feet (9+ m) with support
Flower Shape: Distinctive trumpet or funnel-shaped flowers with flared openings

Natural Habitat

Native to: Eastern and Central North America, Eastern United States
Habitat: Woodlands, riverbanks, forest edges, and cultivated gardens with support structures
Climate: Temperate, Continental, Humid subtropical

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun for best flowering, tolerates partial sun

Water

Drought tolerant once established, prefers consistent moisture

Soil

Wide variety of soils, Well-drained, Moist, Adaptable to poor soils

Expert Growing Tips

1

Provide very sturdy support - this vine is extremely vigorous

2

Prune heavily in late winter to control growth

3

Can be invasive - plant with caution and maintenance

4

Aerial rootlets may damage some surfaces

5

Remove suckers regularly to prevent spreading

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Vigorous coverage for fences, walls, and arbors
  • Hummingbird and pollinator gardens
  • Large landscape screening
  • Erosion control on slopes
  • Bold summer flowering displays

Traditional Uses

  • No significant traditional medicinal uses
  • Primarily valued for ornamental and wildlife habitat purposes

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.

Further Reading

Campsis radicans | Wikipedia

scientific resource

Trumpet Vine | North Carolina Extension

educational resource

Frequently Asked Questions about the Campsis

what is Campsis?

Campsis (trumpet vine) is a vigorous climbing vine native to North America with bright orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds.

what does Campsis symbolize?

Campsis symbolizes resilience, ambition, and overcoming adversity, with its vigorous climbing nature representing the drive to reach new heights.

is Campsis invasive?

Campsis can be invasive in some areas due to its vigorous growth and suckering habit, requiring regular pruning and maintenance to control.

do hummingbirds like Campsis flowers?

Yes, hummingbirds are strongly attracted to Campsis trumpet-shaped flowers, making it an excellent choice for pollinator and wildlife gardens.

Available Colors

Orange
Red
Orange-red
Yellow-orange

Quick Facts

Type:vine
Family:Bignoniaceae (Trumpet Vine family)
Native to:Eastern and Central North America
Blooms:Summer to early fall (June-September)

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