The Robust Cross Vine in Texas

Cross vine (Bignonia capreolata) is a vigorous, native, semi-evergreen climbing vine known for its trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and cover arbors or fences with ease. Cross vine has received recognition in landscape circles and was included in the Texas Superstars™ program—an initiative by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension that highlights top-performing, low-maintenance plants for Texas gardens.

Cross Vine for Texas

Cross Vine Spring Blooms in Texas: Early March

Cross Vine Early April for shaded vine.

The hardy and prolific Cross Vine blooms in sun or shade in Texas. It does need at least a bit of sun. The full sun located vine will begin blooming in early March. Shaded vines bloom about two to three weeks later. It is obviously a member of the Trumpet-Creeper. After the bloom face you are left with a lovely green fine. It is hardy and found growing wild in some areas of Texas, predominantly east Texas.

Trumpet Vine

Cross Vine Texas Trumpet Vine Family

Native to the southeastern U.S., including Texas, it thrives across the state—from the humid East to drier Central Texas—so long as it has good drainage and full to partial sun. The blooms, typically orange-red with yellow throats, appear heavily in spring and sporadically through summer. Cultivars like ‘Tangerine Beauty’ are widely planted in landscapes and praised for their bold color and long bloom season.

10 Questions and Answers About Cross Vine

1. Q: Is cross vine native to Texas?
A: Yes, it’s native to the southeastern U.S., including much of Texas, and is well-adapted to the region’s climate.

2. Q: What are the best growing conditions for cross vine?
A: Full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. It tolerates drought once established but grows more vigorously with regular moisture.

3. Q: How large does cross vine get?
A: It can grow 30 to 50 feet long, making it ideal for covering fences, arbors, or trellises.

4. Q: When does cross vine bloom in Texas?
A: It blooms heavily in spring (March–May) and may produce sporadic flowers into the summer and fall.

5. Q: Is cross vine evergreen in Texas?
A: It is semi-evergreen—holding some foliage in mild winters, especially in Central and South Texas.

6. Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes. It’s a favorite of hummingbirds and also attracts bees and butterflies.

7. Q: What awards or recognitions has cross vine received?
A: The cultivar ‘Tangerine Beauty’ is a Texas Superstar™, selected for outstanding performance with minimal inputs.

8. Q: Is cross vine invasive or aggressive?
A: It’s vigorous but not invasive. It climbs by tendrils and clings easily to structures but doesn’t harm masonry like ivy.

9. Q: Can it grow in East Texas’ high humidity?
A: Yes, it performs very well in humid East Texas, especially with good airflow and sun.

10. Q: What are common problems with cross vine?
A: It is generally pest- and disease-free. Occasional leaf spotting or dieback can occur in poorly drained soils or prolonged drought.

Great rose to use with your Cross Vine.