Trumpet Vine, Argentine Purple

Clytostoma callistegioides

$24.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 8-10

Clytostoma callistegioides is one of those vines that feels like it wandered out of an old botanical expedition—vigorous, evergreen, and brimming with the sort of charm collectors once crossed oceans to find. A close relative of our native Crossvine (Bignonia capreolata), it carries that same athletic climbing spirit but dresses it up in glossy, refined foliage and unexpectedly large blossoms.

Those blossoms—long, fluted trumpets in a soft violet-purple—can reach up to five inches, appearing in spring like a quiet fanfare from the vine itself. Early plant explorers in Argentina and southern Brazil noted its habit of draping over thickets and climbing among warm, wooded edges, where its lavender blooms lit up the understory after summer rains. The genus Clytostoma (now often folded into Bignonia) enjoyed a moment of admiration among 19th-century horticulturists who prized exotic trumpet vines for their bold flowers and easy disposition.

This South American beauty climbs by tendrils, making it a natural fit for arbors, fences, or the sun-washed corner of a garden wall. In warm climates it’s remarkably carefree—evergreen, steady, and generous with its flowers. In prolonged dry spells it appreciates a little extra water, a nod to its origins in rain-nourished subtropical forests.

Hardy in Zone 9 and worth a thoughtful trial in sheltered pockets of Zone 8, Clytostoma callistegioides rewards gardeners who enjoy plants with a sense of place and history. It is handsome, free-flowering, and just unusual enough to spark curiosity—exactly the kind of plant Woodlanders has always championed.

Photo courtesy of Yasuko and Suzanne.

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Schedule Delayed Shipping in your Cart

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Grown for Success
Propagated at Woodlanders

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Shipping
Expertly packed & shipped in 2-4 biz days

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 8 - 10
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained
  • Height at Maturity: 10 - 15 Feet
  • Spread at Maturity: -
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Evergreen

Flower/Foliage

Flower Structure: Produces trumpet-shaped lavender flowers with darker purple veining.

Blooming Season: Blooms from late spring to early fall, providing a long season of color.

Color: The flowers are a distinctive lavender color, creating a striking visual display against the dark green foliage.

Terminal clusters lavender trumpets, spring

Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth and flowering, ensure the plant receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining soil. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils.

Watering: Requires moderate watering. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply to ensure the root zone is adequately hydrated. Once established, it can tolerate short periods of drought but performs best with regular watering during dry periods.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. Protect the plant from frost and cold winds. In cooler climates, consider growing it as an annual or in containers that can be moved indoors during winter.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and abundant flowering. An additional application of compost or well-rotted manure can enhance soil fertility. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the vine. Light pruning helps maintain a tidy appearance and promotes denser growth. Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew. If pests are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.