Chinese Trumpet Vine (Campsis grandiflora)

Chinese Trumpet Vine

Campsis grandiflora

Trumpet-shaped blooms blaze like summer torches. Deciduous climbing vine; common name: Chinese Trumpet Creeper.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun for maximum bloom production; tolerates partial shade with reduced flowering
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Cold-hardy to -15°C; tolerates high summer heat but benefits from afternoon shade in arid regions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, pinnately compound leaves with 7–13 ovate, serrated leaflets
  • Flower: Bright orange-red trumpet-shaped blooms, 8–10 cm long, clustered at stem tips
  • Stem: Woody twining vine with aerial rootlets for anchoring and climbing
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply balanced, diluted fertilizer monthly. Discontinue fertilization in late summer to prepare the vine for winter dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching; avoid applying undiluted compost to prevent root burn
Pruning
  • Prune in late winter to remove dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches
  • Thin dense growth to improve airflow and light penetration for better blooming
  • Cut back spent flower clusters to encourage potential reblooming in late summer
  • Remove suckers to control aggressive spread and maintain desired shape
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains iridoid glycosides that cause gastrointestinal distress

Humans: Ingestion may cause mild oral irritation and nausea in large quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes perseverance and vibrant summer vitality in Eastern Asian horticulture

Usage: Ornamental climbing vine for arbors, walls, and fences; attracts hummingbirds and pollinators