Climbing vines are the most overlooked group of plants available to gardeners, yet they grow almost everywhere, clambering up trees in the native woods, sprawling along roadsides, cascading down hills and creek banks, and softening fences and arbors in city and country gardens. There are dozens of great vines that need little to no care at all, other than an occasional trimming to keep them in check.
Technically, vines are just flexible stems that don't stop growing. They constantly get longer, reach higher, and spread into new areas. There are annual vines that need to be replanted each year, perennial vines that return from their roots each season, and woody vines that have trunks like shrubs or trees and can be just as long-lived.
Vines and their supports (trellis, arbors, and so forth) provide framing, create focal points, and lift our view from the lawn and flower beds to eye level and beyond. Vines can mask bare walls, provide fast shade on the hot side of a house, or hide ugly scenery. Some will provide beautiful flowers, fall color, or evergreen interest in the garden.
What you grow depends on the effect you're looking for. A few showy,annual vines include black-eyed Susan vine, hyacinth bean, mandevilla, moonflower, and morning glory. Great perennial vines include bougainvillea, coral vine, creeping fig, grapes, jasmine, and scarlet trumpet vine.
» Find out about landscaping with native vines
