Description
Form: A climbing vine.
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Evergreen but deciduous below 20°F (-6.7°C).
Growth rate: Moderate to fast.
Mature Size: 20-50' (6-15m) 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: Woody. This vine climbs with tendrils and needs a trellis or fence for support.
Roots: It forms underground tubers and is invasive in moist, fertile soils.
Wildlife: The flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and 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 (-12°C).
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to part shade.
Soil: Well draining, pH 6.1-8.5 (slightly acidic to alkaline). This plant is tolerant of soil types, but intolerant of salt, and should not be fertilized. Organic soil amendments can cause rampant growth and should be avoided.
Water after becoming established: Monthly, or more often to maintain appearance. Extra water speeds growth.
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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