Description
The trumpet vine is a fast-growing climber reaching up to 10 m in height. It grows 1–1.5 m a year, with thick, stiff shoots that twine around supports or climb with clinging aerial roots. Its unusual orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers decorate the plant from June to September. Its fruits – large pods – are also decorative. It comes from North America and was brought to Europe in the 17th century.
This beautiful climber is excellent for covering trellises, arbours and large fences, and climbs beautifully up buildings and trees. It can also be grown in large containers on balconies and terraces.
Requirements
The trumpet vine grows best in sunny, warm and sheltered places in slightly moist soil. In harsh winters it may be damaged by frost, but it regenerates quickly and regrows well from the base.
Propagation
The trumpet vine is propagated by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering in winter. In spring, cut back last year's flowered shoots to between the 2nd and 4th bud.