Lots of gardens in the south of France have a Campsis covering a pergola or growing up a wall.  Its leaves are very like wisteria (as is its triffid-like growth rate) but in the summer it is covered in beautiful deep orange, trumpet like flowers. It is occasionally seen with yellow flowers too.

It is not fully hardy but if planted against a south facing wall or on a sheltered pergola it seems to survive with no problems. For UK gardens Madame Galen is the hardiest cultival.

If you are looking to cover a pergola Campsis looks great with an ornamental vine especially one with purple coloured leaves to highlight the orange of the Campsis flowers. Alternatively Golden Hop (Humulus lupulus 'Aureus') looks great - its lovely large golden leaves glow next to the orange flowers.

Campsis (Trumpet Vine)

Growing Guide for Campsis

Campsis is not too fussy regarding soil but in order to get a good crop of flowers it needs lots of sun. The stems need to 'ripen' in the sun and flowering will follow. For best results plant against a south-facing wall or pergola. It also needs lots of room. Once established they grow at a phenomenal rate.

They can be pruned hard in late winter to keep them under control. Cut back to three or four buds from the stems which provide the framework. The flowers last a long time and begin in July in the South of France but August in the UK.

Campsis tagliabuana 'Madame Galen'received the RHSs Award of Garden Merit (AGM)

Campsis is a great climber for bold gardens in the Mediterranean, Tropical or Exotic style.