Basic Information

Common Name: Campsis

Scientific Name: Campsis

Native Habitat: Eastern Asia, Southeastern United States

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Campsis, commonly known as Trumpet Vine or Trumpet Creeper, boasts a history deeply intertwined with both the natural world and human cultivation. The name “Campsis” is derived from the Greek word “kampe,” meaning bent, a reference to the curved stamens within the flower.

The genus Campsis consists of two species: Campsis radicans, native to the southeastern United States, and Campsis grandiflora, native to eastern Asia (specifically China and Japan). Campsis radicans was first described botanically by Linnaeus in 1759. Its vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers quickly caught the attention of gardeners and botanists. Indigenous peoples of North America also recognized the plant’s value, utilizing it for medicinal purposes and ornamental uses.

Campsis grandiflora entered Western horticulture later than its American counterpart. Its introduction to Europe and North America sparked considerable interest due to its larger flowers and more refined appearance. The exact timeline of its introduction is somewhat unclear, but botanical records suggest it gained popularity in the 19th century.

The Trumpet Vine’s vigorous growth habit has contributed to both its popularity and its reputation as an aggressive climber. Early cultivators likely prized it for its rapid ability to cover walls, fences, and arbors, creating visually stunning displays of orange, red, and yellow blooms. However, its tendency to spread via suckers and seeds soon became apparent, leading to its classification as invasive in some regions where it is not native.

In modern horticulture, both Campsis radicans and Campsis grandiflora, along with their hybrids (often referred to as Campsis x tagliabuana), are widely cultivated. Breeders have developed cultivars with improved flowering characteristics, more compact growth habits, and variations in flower color. Despite its challenges, the Trumpet Vine remains a beloved plant for gardeners seeking a bold and dramatic climber. Its historical significance, striking appearance, and ongoing cultivation ensure its continued presence in landscapes and gardens worldwide. The plant’s easy propagation made it ideal for quickly filling landscapes. Nurseries readily propagated and sold the plants, further contributing to their widespread adoption. While specific individual cultivators may not be widely documented, the nursery industry as a whole played a crucial role in popularizing Campsis.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Campsis species exhibit several notable adaptations. Their aerial rootlets allow them to cling to various surfaces, enabling them to climb vertically and reach sunlight. The trumpet-shaped flowers are specifically adapted for pollination by hummingbirds, attracting these pollinators with their vibrant colors and abundant nectar. The plant’s vigorous growth and spreading habit allow it to quickly colonize disturbed areas. Furthermore, the plant has tolerance to drought conditions once fully established.

Propagation Methods

Trumpet Vines are relatively easy to propagate using several methods. Stem cuttings are a common method, where semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer readily root. Root suckers that emerge from the ground can also be dug up and transplanted. Seed propagation is possible, but it can be slow and the resulting plants may not be true to type. Layering is another effective method, where a stem is bent down and buried in the soil until roots form.

Toxicology

Campsis species are considered mildly toxic to humans and pets. Contact with the sap can cause skin irritation, redness, and itching in some individuals. Ingestion of any part of the plant may lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While the toxicity is generally mild, it’s advisable to keep children and pets away from the plant to prevent accidental ingestion. If ingestion occurs, it’s recommended to contact a poison control center or veterinarian for guidance.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Scale

Diseases:

• Leaf spot
• Powdery mildew

Other:

• Lack of flowering: Insufficient sunlight.
• Aggressive spreading: Extensive root system and prolific seed production.
• Dieback: Can be caused by severe cold or fungal infections.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

While the standard Campsis radicans and Campsis grandiflora are not rare, certain cultivars with unique flower colors or growth habits may be less common. Variegated varieties, though not widely available, would be considered rare due to difficult propagation and demand from collectors of rare plants.

Value:

The value of a Campsis plant typically depends on its size, maturity, and the desirability of its cultivar. Larger, well-established plants with abundant blooms command higher prices. Unique or rare cultivars with unusual flower colors or forms will also fetch a premium. Current trends in gardening and landscaping, such as a preference for native plants or drought-tolerant species, can also influence the plant’s market value.