Contents
Description
Bignonia, also known as trumpet vine or Campsis, is a genus of flowering plants with around 30 species. These plants are native to the Americas, with the majority of species being found in South America. Bignonia is known for its trumpet-shaped flowers that come in various colors such as orange, red, and yellow. The flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies, making Bignonia a great addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Bignonia |
Appearance
Bignonia is a woody vine that can grow up to 30 feet in height. The leaves are pinnately compound, meaning they are made up of several leaflets. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and can be up to 4 inches long. They bloom in the summer and early fall. Bignonia’s fruit is a long pod that contains numerous seeds. The plant’s bark is brown and rough, and it can cling to surfaces using aerial roots.
Care Guide
Bignonia is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:- Water: Bignonia prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and midsummer to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Bignonia grows well in a variety of soils, but it prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Bignonia needs full sun to thrive, but it can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: Bignonia is hardy in USDA Zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bignonia is relatively pest and disease-free, but here are some issues to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to get rid of them.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves. Use horticultural oil to get rid of them.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to treat it.
Habitat
Bignonia is native to the Americas, where it can be found in a variety of habitats such as forests, savannas, and riverbanks. It prefers moist soil and full sun. Bignonia can also grow in urban areas and is commonly used as a landscape plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bignonia be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Bignonia can be grown in a container, but it will need a large one and regular watering.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Bignonia?
A: Apply fertilizer twice a year, in the spring and midsummer.
Q: Does Bignonia need support to grow?
A: Yes, Bignonia is a climbing vine and will need support to grow vertically. It can cling to surfaces using aerial roots.
Q: How often should I water my Bignonia?
A: Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Bignonia:- Trumpet Creeper (Campsis radicans)- Cross Vine (Bignonia capreolata)- Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia)- Wisteria (Wisteria spp.)- Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris)
References
– “Bignonia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282004– “Campsis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9520/campsis/details– “Bignonia (Trumpet Creeper).” Plant Care Today. Accessed August 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/bignonia.html
