Hummingbirds Flock to Trumpet Vine—But Is It Invasive: Campsis radicans, or trumpet vine, is a well-known plant with bright, tube-shaped flowers that hummingbirds love. The plant’s bright orange-red flowers are full of nectar, which makes it a favourite in parks where people want to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Hummingbirds Flock to Trumpet Vine—But Is It Invasive?
However, the trumpet vine is also known for spreading quickly. It adds beauty and wildlife to gardens, but its fast growth can be hard on other plants and the scenery. Here are some good and bad things about having trumpet vine in your yard.
Why Hummingbirds Love Trumpet Vine
The trumpet vine’s bright flowers are just the right size and shape for hummingbirds. The nectar is deep inside the tube blooms, so the birds have to hover and feed, which is how they normally eat. Additionally, the plant blooms a lot in the summer, giving hummingbirds a steady food source during peak feeding times.
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Is Trumpet Vine Invasive?
Yes, trumpet vine can spread quickly, especially in places where it can grow without being stopped. Rhizomes, the plant’s underground roots, and seeds that animals or the wind can carry help it spread fast.
It can choke out other plants with its fast growth, and if it isn’t handled properly, its thick, woody stems can even damage fences or walls. Some places think of trumpet vine as a noxious weed because it can take over natural plants and spread out of control. People who plant it should be careful and take steps to stop it from spreading.
How to Manage Trumpet Vine’s Growth
Here are some things you can do to enjoy the trumpet vine’s beauty and ability to attract hummingbirds without having to deal with how widespread it is:
Plant in a pot: Growing trumpet vine in a big pot can help keep its roots in one place, which will stop it from spreading.
Regular pruning: Cut the plant back often to keep it from getting too big and taking over other plants nearby.
Put up barriers: Putting up barriers underground can stop the roots from growing to places you don’t want them to.
Keep an eye out for seed pods. To stop trumpet vine from growing by self-seeding, remove seed pods before they mature.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds love trumpet vine, but because it spreads quickly, it needs to be carefully managed. For those who want to make a garden that hummingbirds will love but don’t want to deal with invasive plants, coral honeysuckle or bee balm are two options. These plants will still draw pollinators without the risk of taking over your garden.