Hummingbird Vine

The most amazing feature about the hummingbird vine (campsis radicans) is undoubtedly its trumpet-shaped flowers. These fabulously beautiful blossoms grow so long and so magnificently slender that people can't resist planting the mother vines by their fences, stonewall, or trellises. Their mere sight is sure to warrant a second look from guests and passersby. The flowers are of bright red color, radiant to anyone who would be able to see them. The hummingbird vine is no small plant life. It could grow as tall as 60 feet, and its spread can reach 30 feet if it is allowed to drop its seeds. Despite the length it could possess, this vine has relatively thin stems with feathery leaves. Needless to say, it is so named because of its ability to attract hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are often seen playing with the nectar stems of the trumpet-shaped flowers. These birds are said to be fascinated with the color of the blooms and the taste of the nectar. Additionally, the pollens of the vine are often distributed by the hummingbirds that frequent the flowers. The hummingbird vine is a hardy plant, further making it the perfect choice for vegetative ornamentation for walls, fences and entrance alleys. It could withstand most weather conditions. But though the vine itself is sturdy, its flowers are not. Whenever transplanting is required, it is recommended that such should be done when the hummingbird vine is in its dormant phase, meaning, it has yet to bear its blooms. And since the stems are quite delicate, it is likewise suggested that they should be cut to manageable levels before transplanting is commenced. This would make the process a whole lot easier. Additionally, before transferring this vine, please be reminded that you should not pull out the plant until it is uprooted. Instead, dig a ball-shaped hole on the ground where it is planted, and transfer the vine together with the root ball. This would preserve the integrity of the roots. Caring for this vine is similar to other vines of its class. Keeping the soil well-watered and treating the same with fertilizer at least every two months would ensure the proper growth of the plant and the most beautiful flowers once blooming season arrives. Gardeners from all over the mainland are all agog over this vine. The beauty of its flowers, its ability to add color and texture to facades, and the hummingbirds it could invite are benefits that simply cannot be dismissed. No wonder these vines have been voted, time and time again, as one of America's most beloved plants.