Crossvine, Bignonia capreolata
Status in Florida: Native to floodplain forest, wet hammocks, and rich woods.
Size at Maturity: High climbing woody vine reaching 30-50’
Phenology: Semi-evergreen woody vine with glossy, dark green leaves that turn bronze or purple in fall. Produces trumpet-shaped flowers in clusters, ranging in color from orange to red with yellow throats.
Recommend Uses: Allow to climb trees, wall coverings, large trellis or cover fences.
Bloom Season: Blooms in spring, typically from April to May.
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to shade. Flowers best in full sun.
Soil Texture: Rich, moist, well-drained sandy or loamy soils but will grow in a range of soils.
Soil pH: Tolerant of a wide range of soil pH levels, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.5)
Moisture Requirements: Tolerant of both drought and occasional flooding; prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low tolerance
•Maintenance Tips: Crossvine is relatively low-maintenance but may require occasional pruning to control growth and shape. Prune after flowering to promote vigorous growth and flowering the following season.
Features:
- Fast growing
- Hardy
- Drought tolerant
- Attracts hummingbirds
- Won’t damage brick or wooden walls
Considerations: Crossvine can be aggressive in optimal growing conditions and may require management to prevent overtake. It may also be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions.
Toxicity to Pets: The foliage and flowers of Crossvine are not known to be toxic to pets.
Companion Plants: Carolina jasmine, american wisteria, coral honeysuckle, coontie, pinxter azalea, yaupon holly, beautyberry, and redbuds
Wildlife Benefit: Provides habitat, cover, and food for various wildlife species. The flowers attract hummingbirds, pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the dense foliage provides nesting sites for birds.