Campsis radicans - Trumpet vine

Campsis radicans, generally known as a trumpet vine or climbing trumpet, belongs to the family of the trumpet tree family (Bignoniaceae). This strong, summer green climbing plant is native to the southeastern United States and has established itself as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. It is valued for its striking, trumpet -shaped flowers and its ability to green walls, fences and pergolas.

Morphology and appearance

Campsis radicans is a multi -year, deciduous climbing plant that can reach heights of up to 10 meters. It uses air roots to attach to the walls, trees and other structures. These adhesive roots give the plant their extraordinary climbing ability.

The leaves are arranged and feathered, with 7 to 11 egg -shaped to lanceolate single sheets. These are serrated on the edge, dark green and slightly shiny. In autumn, the foliage turns yellow before falling off.

The most striking feature of Campsis radicans is its large, trumpet -shaped flowers, which appear in bright orange tones from July to September. The flowers are at a terminal panicles, and each flower reaches a length of 6 to 9 centimeters. They are very nectar -containing and attract numerous pollinators, especially coli bris, bees and butterflies.

After the flowering period, long, narrow capsule fruits develop, which contain numerous winged seeds. These seeds are spread by the wind, which contributes to the natural spread of the species.

Distribution and habitat

Campsis radicans is at home in the southeastern and central regions of the United States, where they often occur in damp forests, along river banks and on the edge of the street. The plant prefers warm, sunny locations with well -permeable soils, but can also tolerate partially shade.

Due to their adaptability, Campsis radicans has become naturalized in many regions of the world, especially in Europe, Asia and Australia. In some areas, it is classified as an invasive way due to its strong growth dynamics and its ability to displace local plants.

Ecological importance

Campsis radicans plays an important role in her natural habitat by supporting pollinators such as coli bris and bees. The plant not only offers food, but also protection for different animal species, since its dense vegetation can serve as a hiding place.

However, due to its climbing ability, it can become problematic in some ecosystems. If it grows uncontrollably in foreign areas, it can overgrow local vegetation and impair their light and nutrient supply.

Use and care

Campsis radicans is estimated as an ornamental plant worldwide and planted in gardens, parks and public facilities. It is ideal for greening walls, pergolas and fences, as it grows quickly and has a lush, decorative effect.

The plant is relatively easy to care for, but requires regular pruning to control its growth and prevent excessive spread. She prefers nutrient -rich, well -drained soils and locations with full sunlight. It is hardy in cooler climate zones, but can freeze back in extremely cold winters, but drives out again in spring.

In addition to their use as an ornamental plant, Campsis radicans also has a cultural and symbolic meaning. In traditional medicine in the indigenous population of North America, it was used to treat skin diseases and other symptoms. However, modern medical applications are rare.

Campsis radicans remains a popular plant in garden design due to their striking flowers and its versatility, but requires careful control to limit their potential invasiveness.