Shrub of the Month-December 2009
Tagged as:
Trumpet Vine
(Campsis radicans)
Hike the the Northern Illinois collection (Near Parking Lot 2), December's Shrub of the Month, Trumpet Vine, can we found. Winter exposes the appealingly curvaceous lines of this woody vine.
After the leaves drop from this woody vine in autumn, you can really see the sinuous, artistic curves its branches make as they climb. These curvaceous lines—and the long woody pods that are its fruits—make it as attractive in winter as it is in spring when covered with lush green foliage and summer when blooming with orange trumpet-shaped flowers.
In summer, trumpet vine bears showy clusters of orange funnel-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees. In winter, its dense cloak of green foliage drops, revealing its attractively twining branches and elongated bean-like pods. Wear gloves when handling trumpet vines. As its alternate name cow-itch suggests, the foliage gives some people an itchy rash.
Trumpet vine sends out aerial roots along its stems. When these encounter a surface, they attach tightly, allowing the vine to climb. As it grows higher, it develops horizontal branches that stretch out, seeking light and space.
Mature size: Up to 40 feet high
Rate of growth: Fast
Visit this shrub in all seasons to see its changing features!
(Click on photo to enlarge)
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Trumpet Vine flower |
Trumpet Vine summer form |
Trumpet Vine branches |
