Looking for a way to quickly cover up a bare wall or add some vertical charm to your garden? These fast-growing climbers are perfect for taking over facades and racing up trellises. Here’s a look at some of the most popular picks and what makes them so special.
[[plants]]
++Morning Glory (Ipomoea)
Morning Glories are classic climbers that belong to the bindweed family. They use their beautiful leaves to quickly wind their way up any support, showing off vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers during their blooming season. Since they hail from tropical regions, they aren’t big fans of the cold. Most gardeners treat them as annuals and simply sow new seeds every spring.
++American Bittersweet (Celastrus)
While its German name “Baumwürger” (tree strangler) sounds a bit intense, this plant is actually quite a looker! It’s a vigorous grower that can easily scale trees. Beyond its lovely foliage, it produces attractive flowers and colorful berries. For the best results, try to plant it so the “head” of the vine gets plenty of sun while the “feet” (the roots) stay cool in the shade.
++Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
If you’re after fast growth paired with a massive pop of color, Nasturtiums are a fantastic choice. They do best in a spot protected from the wind and actually prefer soil that isn’t too rich in nutrients. They are a go-to for sprucing up balconies, but they also look amazing draped over garden sheds or around patio seating areas.
++Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)
Virginia Creeper brings a wonderful rustic, country charm to any garden. This fast-grower features classic vine-like leaves and dark berries that local birds absolutely love. The real show happens in the fall, though, when the foliage turns a stunning, fiery red. It’s pretty flexible with soil—thriving in anything from sand to clay—but it does appreciate a somewhat sheltered spot if you can provide one.
++Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum)
Who says you can’t have flowers in the winter? Winter Jasmine is a popular pick for exactly that reason. This fast-growing climber brightens up the cold months with cheerful, bright yellow blooms during its flowering season. It’s incredibly hardy and doesn’t need extra winter protection, making it a great choice for covering up stone walls or fences.
++Wisteria (Wisteria)
Few plants can compete with the sheer drama of a Wisteria in full bloom. When Wisteria season hits, the plant produces a literal “rain” of cascading purple or blue flowers. It grows very quickly and develops heavy, woody vines over time. To get those iconic blooms, make sure you plant it in a sunny spot where it can soak up the rays.
++English Ivy (Hedera helix)
You can’t talk about climbers without mentioning this all-time classic. English Ivy provides year-round greenery, whether it’s covering the ground, a trellis, or a wall. It’s tough as nails, handles freezing temps easily, and is very low-maintenance. Just a heads-up: its aerial roots are quite strong and can grip onto siding or brickwork. If you want to avoid potential damage to your house, it’s a good idea to provide a dedicated trellis.
++Passionflower (Passiflora)
If you want something that looks truly exotic, the Passionflower is the way to go. Its intricate, multi-colored blooms bring a tropical vibe to your garden or balcony. While it is technically a perennial, it’s often grown as an annual in cooler climates because it doesn’t like the frost. Luckily, it grows so fast that you’ll have plenty of lush greenery to enjoy every single season!