Evergreen climbing flowers are a gardener’s dream. They not only provide vertical interest and structure, but also boast beautiful blooms throughout the year. These versatile plants can transform fences, walls and trellises into vibrant living features, adding a touch of magic to any garden. In this article find five fantastic evergreen climbers that will keep your garden colourful year-round.
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Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)
This elegant climber is a favorite for its sweetly fragrant, star-shaped white flowers that bloom throughout summer. Star jasmine thrives in full sun to partial shade and boasts glossy green leaves that may take on a reddish hue in winter. Its moderate growth rate and manageable size make it perfect for smaller gardens or containers.
Chocolate Vine (Akebia quinata)
As the name suggests, this unique vine offers a delightful surprise. Clusters of maroon-coloured, chocolate-scented flowers appear in early summer, followed by interesting purple pods that split open to reveal black seeds with a fleshy white aril (often mistaken for flesh). The chocolate vine is a vigorous grower, reaching up to 10 metres in height, and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Crimson Glory Vine (Clerodendrum splendens)
This showstopper is a true attention-grabber. Vibrant clusters of scarlet red flowers with prominent white stamens erupt throughout summer and autumn. The crimson glory vine enjoys a warm and sunny position and can tolerate some drought once established. Be aware of its vigorous growth habit and provide ample support for its climbing stems.
Mandevilla (Mandevilla spp.)
Offering a tropical flair, mandevilla boasts large, trumpet-shaped flowers in a variety of colors, including red, pink, yellow and white. Mandevilla thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, blooming prolifically throughout summer and into fall. This vigorous climber can reach up to 3 meters in height and requires a sturdy support structure.
Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)
This iconic climber isn’t technically flowering – the vibrant display comes from colorful bracts that surround small, white flowers. Bougainvillea boasts stunning bracts in shades of pink, purple, orange and red, creating a truly dazzling display. This sun-loving climber prefers warm climates and well-drained soil. Regular pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and encourage continuous blooming.
With their diverse colors, fragrances and growth habits, these evergreen climbing flowers offer something for every gardener. By incorporating these beauties into your garden design, you can create a vertical tapestry of color and fragrance that will bring enjoyment throughout the year. Remember to research the specific needs of each plant before planting, ensuring they thrive in your climate and provide the visual impact you desire.
FAQs
Do evergreen climbing flowers need a lot of maintenance?
Maintenance requirements vary between species. Star jasmine and mandevilla are relatively low-maintenance, while bougainvillea benefits from regular pruning. All climbers will need occasional watering, especially during hot weather and may require tying or training to their support structure.
Can evergreen climbers grow in shade?
While some evergreen climbers tolerate shade, most prefer full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. Star jasmine and chocolate vine can handle partial shade, while mandevilla, crimson glory vine and bougainvillea need more sunlight to bloom well.
How fast do evergreen climbing flowers grow?
Growth rates differ. Star jasmine and chocolate vine are moderate growers, while crimson glory vine and mandevilla can be quite vigorous. Bougainvillea growth can be controlled with pruning.
Are evergreen climbing flowers suitable for containers?
Yes, some evergreen climbers are well-suited to containers. Star jasmine and mandevilla are good choices, provided they have a large enough pot and adequate support for climbing.
Do evergreen climbing flowers attract pollinators?
Many evergreen climbing flowers are attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. Fragrant varieties like star jasmine and chocolate vine are particularly appealing.
How can I encourage my evergreen climber to flower more?
Ensure your climber receives adequate sunlight (as per its specific needs) and well-drained soil. Regular fertilisation during the growing season can also promote flowering.
Is it difficult to winterize evergreen climbing flowers?
Most evergreen climbers are fairly cold-hardy. However, if you live in a particularly cold climate, you may need to provide some winter protection, such as mulching around the base of the plant.
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