Trumpet Creeper
Campsis radicans
Last reviewed: June 2026
Campsis radicans is a vigorous native vine producing orange trumpet-shaped flowers from June through August. This deciduous climber attracts hummingbirds and thrives across eastern and central North America.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Trumpet Creeper as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–360" H × 180"–360" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Trumpet creeper is a vigorous deciduous vine that produces clusters of orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers from June through August. This native climber can quickly cover fences, arbors, or walls but requires regular pruning to keep it contained.
Growing Trumpet Creeper
Grow Trumpet Creeper in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 240 to 360 inches tall and spread 180 to 360 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Trumpet Creeper takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely aggressive spreader that can damage structures
- Can look messy without constant pruning
- May be considered invasive or weedy by neighbors
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds and also provide nectar for bees. The dense foliage offers nesting sites for birds.
Common questions
- When does Campsis radicans bloom?
- Trumpet Creeper blooms from June through August, producing clusters of orange trumpet-shaped flowers that are particularly attractive to hummingbirds.
- What pollinators visit Campsis radicans?
- Hummingbirds are the primary pollinators of Trumpet Creeper, though bees also visit the flowers. The tubular shape and orange color are specifically adapted for hummingbird pollination.
- Where is Campsis radicans native?
- Trumpet Creeper is native to much of eastern and central North America, ranging from Florida north to New Hampshire and west to Texas, Kansas, and Iowa.
- How aggressive is Campsis radicans growth?
- Trumpet Creeper is a very vigorous vine that can spread aggressively through underground roots and self-seeding. It requires regular management to prevent it from overtaking garden spaces.
- Is Trumpet Creeper toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Trumpet Creeper as toxic to livestock.
- Is Trumpet Creeper HOA-friendly?
- Trumpet Creeper takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Trumpet Creeper? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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