Let's face it. Not all of us who desire a charming garden have a green thumb. We see gorgeous arbors on Pinterest with climbing roses or pergolas with drooping grape clusters and immediately doubt our ability to keep these plants alive.
Some plants are quite demanding, it's true. Luckily, for those of us who want to drape our garden structures with relatively low-maintenance blossoms, there are quite a few options!
1. Passionflower
Also called: Apricot Vine, Maypop, Passion Vine
This is a rapid growing, trailing vine. In warmer climates will remain woody, in colder climates will die to the ground and come back the following season. Native to the Southeastern part of the US. Not only are the flowers extremely unique and stunning, you also get delicious fruits that ripen in autumn. Full sun to part shade. Zones 5-9
2. Clematis
Also called: Leather Flower, Old Man's Beard, Traveller's Joy, Virgin's Bower
Gorgeous blooms on this deciduous perennial. Flowers can be 4-7 inches wide and will attract bees, butterflies & hummingbirds. Full sun to part shade. Zones 3-9.
3. Bougainvillea
Also called: Paper Flower
For growers in warmer climates! Native to South America and known for its tolerance of heat, drought and salt. This broadleaf evergreen has a showy display of colorful blooms. Prefers full sun. Zones 9-10.
4. Wisteria
Show-stopping, highly fragrant blooms on this woody bine that can grow to 10-25 feet depending on the support given. The flower clusters droop to about 12-18 inches in length. The American variety, as opposed to the Chinese and Japanese varieties, is less aggressive in growth and requires less pruning. Full sun to part shade. Zones 5-9.
5. Honeysuckle
Honeysuckles grow vigorously and their irresistible fragrance is sure to stop you in your tracks as you pass them by. Avoid choosing the japonica variety as it can be invasive and compete with other plants in your landscape. Fun sun, part shade or dappled sun. Zones 5-9.
Make sure to check out our collection of trellises to find that special piece to support your beautiful climbing plants!
What are some of your favorite flowering vines for your garden? Comment below!
1 comment
So true! Climbing plants can seem a bit daunting – especially if you you lack a green thumb as you said. One of my favorite go-to climbers is Red Malabar spinach! It is incredibly low maintenance in tropical zones (we had amazing results in zone 8b). It’s a gorgeous nutrient-sense edible that attracts lots of birds to your space as well!