Crossvine

Basic Information

Common Name: Crossvine

Scientific Name: Bignonia capreolata

Native Habitat: Southeastern United States

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Bignonia capreolata, commonly known as crossvine, boasts a fascinating history intertwined with botanical exploration and traditional uses. Its discovery and initial classification can be traced back to the early periods of botanical expeditions in North America. While a specific individual “discoverer” isn’t typically attributed, its presence was noted by early European botanists venturing into the southeastern United States, where the vine is native.

The genus name, Bignonia, honors Jean-Paul Bignon, a French librarian and cleric. The species name, capreolata, refers to the tendrils that the vine uses to cling and climb, resembling the “capreolus,” or tendril, of a vine. Its early use by indigenous peoples is well-documented, utilizing different parts of the plant for medicinal purposes. Specifically, extracts were used for ailments ranging from headaches to skin problems.

As European settlers arrived, the crossvine began to be incorporated into their gardens and landscapes, prized for its vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers and vigorous growth habit. Its adaptability to a range of soil conditions and its ability to attract hummingbirds further contributed to its popularity. While specific cultivars weren’t extensively developed early on, its inherent variability led to the selection of superior forms for garden use.

During the 20th century, botanical gardens and horticultural societies further promoted the crossvine through displays and educational programs. This increased visibility, coupled with a growing appreciation for native plants, spurred more targeted breeding and selection efforts. Resulting in cultivars like ‘Tangerine Beauty’ (renowned for its striking orange flowers) and ‘Atrosanguinea’ (prized for its deep red blooms) gaining popularity.

Modern cultivation practices emphasize the crossvine’s potential as a versatile landscape plant. It can be grown on arbors, fences, or allowed to scramble across walls, providing both visual interest and habitat for wildlife. Its low maintenance requirements and tolerance to various environmental conditions make it a suitable choice for a wide range of gardening styles. Current trends continue to focus on selecting cultivars with enhanced flower color, disease resistance, and compact growth habits, ensuring the crossvine remains a beloved native ornamental. It’s become a favorite in wildlife and hummingbird gardens.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Crossvine exhibits several key adaptations that contribute to its success in its native southeastern United States habitat. The most prominent is its use of tendrils for climbing. These tendrils, equipped with adhesive discs, allow the vine to securely attach itself to various surfaces, enabling it to reach sunlight in dense forests and climb to considerable heights. The vine’s vigorous growth rate is another adaptation, allowing it to quickly colonize new areas and compete with other plants for resources. Its tolerance of a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey, further enhances its adaptability. The vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers are specifically adapted for attracting hummingbirds, which serve as its primary pollinators. The ability to withstand periods of drought once established is also crucial for survival in regions with seasonal dry spells. Finally, the crossvine’s non-toxic nature provides a degree of protection from herbivores.

Propagation Methods

Crossvine can be effectively propagated through several methods:

• Stem Cuttings: This is a common and relatively easy method. Take semi-hardwood cuttings in the summer, dip them in rooting hormone, and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and in a humid environment until roots develop.
• Layering: This involves bending a low-lying stem to the ground and burying a portion of it while still attached to the parent plant. Once roots form on the buried stem, it can be severed from the parent and transplanted as a new plant.
• Seed: While possible, seed propagation can be slower and less reliable. Seeds should be stratified (cold treated) before planting to improve germination rates.
• Division: Mature plants can sometimes be divided at the root ball to create new plants, though this method is less common than stem cuttings or layering.

Toxicology

Crossvine is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, it’s always a good practice to discourage ingestion of any plant material. While no major toxins have been identified in crossvine, consuming large quantities of any plant could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. Symptoms might include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In the unlikely event of ingestion, it is recommended to contact a physician or veterinarian, but the risk is generally low. There are no known reports of serious or life-threatening reactions associated with crossvine ingestion.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Scale

Diseases:

• Leaf spot
• Powdery mildew

Other:

• Lack of flowering: Insufficient sunlight can reduce flowering.
• Slow growth: Poor soil conditions or lack of nutrients can inhibit growth.
• Leaf yellowing: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause leaf yellowing.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

While the species itself isn’t considered rare in its native range, certain cultivars or variations, particularly those with unique flower colors or patterns, may be less common and therefore considered rarer. Slow growth and a moderate difficulty in propagation compared to other vines can also contribute to the perceived rarity of specific cultivars. Strong demand can further increase the rarity of more sought-after forms.

Value:

The value of a crossvine specimen is typically influenced by several factors. The size of the plant, with larger and more mature specimens commanding higher prices. The quality and stability of flower color, especially in named cultivars, also significantly impact value. A healthy, well-established plant with vigorous growth is generally more valuable. Current collector trends and the demand for specific cultivars can also drive up prices. Finally, provenance, if the plant comes from a reputable source or has a known history, can contribute to its value.