Looking to spruce up your balcony, add some charm to a pergola, or dress up a small garden shed? Climbing flowers are the way to go! Here’s a look at some of the best climbers out there, what makes them special, and why they’re such favorites for home gardeners.
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++Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)
The Trumpet Vine is actually native to North America, but its stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers have made it a hit with gardeners all over the world. It’s a fantastic choice for adding a splash of color to balconies or covering up bare facades. If you give it a sunny spot and a sturdy trellis to lean on, this vigorous grower can reach heights of up to 30 feet. You can usually expect those beautiful blooms to start popping up in July.
++Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea petiolaris)
Hydrangeas are a staple in classic cottage gardens, and for good reason—those flower heads are hard to beat! If you want that look but need something that climbs, the Climbing Hydrangea is your best friend. Just a heads-up: these leaves are a bit sensitive to that intense midday sun. To keep it happy, pick a spot that’s sheltered from the wind and offers some protection from the harshest afternoon rays.
++Climbing Rose (Rosa wichuraiana)
Is there anything more romantic than a climbing rose? They aren’t just for balconies; they’re the perfect choice for creating a stunning rose arbor or entryway. These beauties love the sun and are surprisingly drought-tolerant once established. If you’re looking for something low-maintenance, the Memorial Rose is a tough, semi-evergreen variety. Of course, there are countless other types in every color imaginable, so you can easily find one that fits your personal style.
++Clematis (Waldrebe)
In the wild, Clematis is often found in wooded areas, which means it’s perfectly happy even if it doesn’t get full sun all day. It offers a lovely mix of lush green foliage and delicate flowers that blend beautifully into a natural garden setting. While it’s generally quite hardy and used to our climate, you might want to give it a little extra protection if a truly extreme frost is in the forecast.
++Black-Eyed Susan Vine (Thunbergia alata)
The Black-Eyed Susan Vine is a cheerful favorite, known for its bright yellow petals and iconic dark centers. Since it’s originally from South Africa, it craves warmth and plenty of sunshine. In most regions, it’s grown as an annual because it can’t handle the winter chill. However, it grows incredibly fast, so if you start your seeds or plant new starts in the spring, it’ll cover your trellis in no time.
++Wisteria (Blauregen)
When Wisteria is in bloom, it’s absolutely breathtaking—it looks like a literal waterfall of flowers. It’s a dream for covering a pergola or creating a flowery “roof” over a patio seating area. Just a word of caution: Wisteria is incredibly strong. Its woody vines can actually crush flimsy trellises or damage rain gutters over time. Make sure you provide it with a very sturdy support system and keep it away from your home’s drainage pipes!
++Garden Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
Nasturtiums are a classic for a reason. The climbing varieties are especially popular for balconies and terraces because of their bold, vibrant flowers that bloom all summer long starting in July. But they aren’t just pretty to look at—parts of the plant are actually edible and have a nice peppery kick! They’ve even been recognized for their medicinal properties, earning the title of “Medicinal Plant of the Year” back in 2013.
%%Passion Flower (Passiflora)
If you’re looking for a real showstopper, look no further than the Passion Flower. Its blooms are incredibly intricate, multi-colored, and unlike anything else in the garden. Planting one of these is the easiest way to bring an exotic, tropical vibe to your backyard. Just make sure to give it a trellis to climb, plenty of bright sunlight, and good airflow to keep it thriving.