Crossvine
I live in Lago Vista, Texas. I planted a Crossvine last spring. It grew nicely but has never bloomed. What do I do to make it bloom?
Known botanically as Bignonia capreolata or formerly as Anisostichus capreolata this spring bloomer has orange-red often mocha fragrant flowers the hummingbirds love. Your plant, like other new plantings, of trees, shrubs, and woody vines often take a season or two to bloom. New plantings often expend their energy establishing roots instead of flowering. This is great for longevity of the plant but frustrating for gardeners waiting for flowers. Once established, the plants will start blooming. Crossvine gets its name from the look of a cross section of the stem flowers. It is hardy in zones 6 to 9 and grows best in full sun to partial shade. Excess shade and nitrogen can also prevent bloom. Some gardeners mix this vine with trumpet vine for extended bloom and food for the hummingbirds.
Jerry A. Payne, USDA ARS
