Trumpet Creeper - Campsis radicans

Common Name :	Trumpet Creeper, Flamenco Trumpet..
Binomial Name :	Campsis radicans
Family :	Bignoniaceae
Bangla Name :	?
Photo Taken :	Bangladesh, Nepal

Botanical Identity

Campsis radicans, commonly known as Trumpet Creeper, Trumpet Vine, or Cow Itch Vine, is a vigorous, fast-growing climber admired for its striking flowers and ability to cover walls and trellises quickly. Belonging to the Bignoniaceae family, this plant is native to the southeastern United States but has been widely introduced elsewhere for ornamental purposes. Its scientific name reflects the Latin “radicans,” meaning “rooting,” referring to its aerial roots that cling to surfaces as it climbs.

Flowers and Fruit Characteristics

The most eye-catching feature of Trumpet Creeper is its tubular, trumpet-shaped flowers, which bloom in clusters during the summer months. These bright orange to red blooms are rich in nectar and highly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. Each flower measures about 7–9 cm in length and flares out into five distinct lobes. After flowering, it produces long, slender seed pods that dry and split open, releasing numerous winged seeds that aid in wind dispersal.

Plant Description

This deciduous woody vine can grow up to 10 meters or more, using its aerial rootlets to cling to walls, fences, and trees. It has pinnate leaves with 7 to 11 serrated leaflets that provide a lush green backdrop to the vibrant flowers. The stems become woody with age and can form dense thickets if not managed. Campsis radicans prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and grows best in moist, well-drained soils. It is hardy and adaptable, though sometimes considered invasive in certain regions due to its aggressive spreading habit.

This creeper has covered a supporting tree totally and resembles as a plant itself. The vine brought lot of red-orange attractive Trumpet flowers on it. This photo was taken from the Garden of Dreams.

Uses and Cautions

Trumpet Creeper is primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes, ideal for arbors, trellises, and natural screens due to its vigorous growth and decorative flowers. Its ability to attract pollinators makes it valuable in wildlife gardens. However, it should be planted with caution, as its sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals — hence the nickname “Cow Itch Vine.” Regular pruning is recommended to keep its growth in check. Despite this, its bold visual appeal and ease of cultivation make it a favorite among gardeners and landscapers.

Photos of this article were taken from the following locations:
1) May 2014: Kathmandu, Nepal.
2) June 2015: Dhaka, Bangladesh.



Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com