Description
Form: A climbing vine.
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Evergreen but deciduous below 20°F.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast.
Mature Size: 20-50' long.
Flowers: Large, trumpet-shaped, purple lobes with white tubes, inside throat veined purple and white, no fragrance.
Bloom: Mid-winter into spring, summer and sometimes fall.
Fruit: Large prickly seed pods containing winged seeds.
Leaves: Green, paired leaflets, lance-shaped, glossy, smooth edges.
Stems: No thorns, woody, climbs with tendrils, needs a trellis or fence for support.
Roots: It forms underground tubers and is invasive in moist, fertile soils.
Wildlife: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, bees.
Toxic / Danger: The seed is poisonous if ingested.
Origin: Argentina and southern Brazil.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 8-11. This plant can die back in very low temperatures but will recover from its roots. The roots are hardy to 10°F.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to part shade.
Water after becoming established: Monthly, or more often to maintain appearance. Extra water speeds growth.
Soil: Well drained, tolerant, pH 6.1-8.5 (slightly acidic to alkaline). This plant has a low salt tolerance and should not be fertilized. Organic soil amendments can cause rampant growth and should be avoided.
Mulch: Use organic mulch, not compost, to retain moisture and keep the roots cool and shaded.
First Year Care: Water frequently to establish an extensive root system.
Planting: This plant can be grown in containers.
Prune: Late fall to early winter, trim it to keep it in bounds. Deadheading the flowers produces more blooms.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Stem cuttings, tip layering. The seed has long germination period and needs scarification.
Uses: Ornamental, privacy screen on trellis, cover for fence or wall.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Trumpet Creeper family (Bignoniaceae) and is related to Bignonia capreolata: Crossvine. Other common names are Argentine Trumpet and Painted Trumpet. This moderately vigorous plant will cover a large area.

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