Bignoniaceae
trumpet creeper
Campsis radicans
Synonyms
Bignonia radicans
Tecoma radicans
Other Common Names
cow-itch, cow vine, trumpet vine
Plant Type
Vine
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
30-40 ft. tall
4-10 ft. wide
Tolerant of
Drought, Occasional Flooding
Inolerant of
Poorly Drained Soil
Propagation
By seed, By division
Plant Propagation Notes
Cold moist stratification required for 30-60 days.
Plants/Diseases
No significant pest or disease issues.
Wildlife Benefits
Host plant for butterfly larvae, Nectar source for hummingbirds
Leaves
Opposite, compound leaves with 7-11 elliptic leaflets with serrated edges.
Flowers
Large, showy red to orange trumpet shaped flowers on panicles.
Fruit
Been-like pods with two winged seeds.
Toxicity
The common name cow itch comes from a mild dermatitis response when skin is exposed to the sap. All parts are mildly toxic and should not be consumed.
USDA Hardiness Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Light Exposure
Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture
Moist
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil pH
Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0), Basic (greater than 8.0)
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
Bottomland and swamp forests, fencerows, old fields, thickets, roadsides, and disturbed areas.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Common in the coastal plain, piedmont, and mountains.