Bignonia Capreolata
Bignonia capreolata L.
Bignonia capreolata, commonly known as Crossvine, is a vigorous native American climbing vine prized for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers in warm shades of orange, red, and yellow. It symbolizes passion, endurance, and resilience.
Bignoniaceae (Trumpet Vine family)
Mid spring to early summer (April to June), occasionally reblooming
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: babianas and corymbia ficifolias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The crossvine holds a storied place in the native landscapes of the American Southeast, where it has been part of indigenous plant knowledge for centuries. Its common name comes from the distinctive cross-shaped pattern visible when the stem is cut in cross-section, a feature that once led to folk associations with protection and strength. As a native plant, it represents ecological harmony and the enduring vitality of the natural world.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun
Water
Low to moderate; tolerates brief drought once established, performs best with consistent moisture
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Clay, Slightly acidic to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Provide a sturdy support structure such as a trellis, fence, or arbor
Prune just after flowering to control size and encourage more blooms
Manage spreading through stolons in garden settings to prevent invasiveness
Plant in well-drained soil; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
Propagate easily by root suckers, semi-hardwood cuttings, or seed
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Covering pergolas, arbors, fences, and walls
- Erosion control on slopes and riverbanks
- Wildlife and pollinator gardens to attract hummingbirds and butterflies
- Naturalistic and woodland edge gardens
- Green wall and vertical screening plantings
Traditional Uses
- Used by Native Americans (Cherokee) as a blood purifier from leaf infusions
- Koasati people used leaf decoctions for rheumatism
- Bark decoctions used in baths to relieve headaches and edema
- Researchers identified the alkaloid reserpine in crossvine in 2012
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bignonia Capreolata
What does the crossvine symbolize?
Crossvine symbolizes passion, endurance, and resilience. Its vigorous climbing nature and long-lasting blooms make it a natural emblem of vitality and determination.
Is Bignonia capreolata invasive?
Crossvine can spread aggressively through stolons and may need to be managed in garden settings, but it is a native plant in the southeastern United States and is not classified as invasive in its native range.
Does crossvine attract hummingbirds?
Yes, the tubular, nectar-rich flowers of crossvine are a favorite of ruby-throated hummingbirds, and the vine also attracts butterflies and other pollinators.
When does Bignonia capreolata bloom?
Crossvine blooms primarily in mid to late spring, typically from April through June, with clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers that appear on the previous year's wood.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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