Garden

12 Easy Climbing Flowers for Pergolas and Trellises

Written by Emily Belkoff

As I sat on my porch swing, sipping my morning coffee, I couldn’t help but marvel at the stunning cascade of wisteria draping over my pergola. 

It got me thinking – why stop at one? There’s a whole world of climbing flowers out there just waiting to transform our outdoor spaces into magical, fragrant retreats. 

Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, these 12 easy climbing flowers are sure to add a touch of whimsy and elegance to your garden. 

Let’s dive in and discover the perfect vine to make your pergola or trellis the envy of the neighborhood!

Top 12 Climbing Flowers for Pergolas and Trellises

1. Trumpet Vine (Campsis)

The trumpet vine is a real showstopper in my garden. Its trumpet-shaped flowers range from fiery orange to deep red, with sunny yellow throats that seem to beckon pollinators from miles around.

I love watching the bees and hummingbirds flit from flower to flower, drawn in by the vibrant colors. While the flowers bask in the sunlight, I’ve noticed the leaves are quite content in shadier spots, making this a versatile choice for various garden locations.

2. Clematis

Ah, clematis – the queen of climbers! This spectacular vine has become a staple in my garden, thanks to its abundant blooms and easy-going nature.

I’ve had great success pairing clematis with climbing roses, creating a romantic cottage garden feel. The best part? It’s not fussy about soil or sun conditions, making it perfect for gardeners of all skill levels.

3. Wisteria

Wisteria holds a special place in my heart. The sight of its cascading purple blooms never fails to take my breath away.

While purple might be the classic choice, I’ve experimented with white, pink, and blue varieties as well. Just remember, these fragrant beauties need sturdy support – I learned that lesson the hard way when my first wisteria nearly toppled my flimsy trellis!

4. Honeysuckle (Lonicera)

There’s something magical about honeysuckle. As a perennial flowering vine, it’s been a constant presence in my garden year after year.

In warmer climates, it keeps its leaves all winter long, providing a touch of green even in the coldest months. But it’s the fragrance that really steals the show. On warm summer evenings, I love to sit outside and breathe in that sweet, nostalgic scent that seems to grow stronger as the sun sets.

5. Climbing Roses

Climbing roses have transformed my garden into a romantic paradise. From soft yellows to deep, passionate reds, these beauties offer a rainbow of possibilities.

I’ve fallen in love with varieties like the dramatic ‘Don Juan’ and the delicate ‘Zephyrine Drouhin’. For a truly enchanting display, try pairing climbing roses with clematis and jasmine – it’s a combination that never fails to impress visitors to my garden.

6. Chocolate Vine (Akebia)

The chocolate vine is a real conversation starter in my garden. This vigorous climber can reach impressive heights – I’ve seen it soar to over 30 feet!

Its compound leaves with five leaflets create a lush backdrop for the chocolate-scented flowers. And let’s not forget about the quirky sausage-shaped fruit pods. They’re not only decorative but also contain edible pulp – a fun surprise for garden snackers!

7. Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)

Star jasmine has been a game-changer in my garden. Its intense fragrance can be detected from across the yard, making every step outside a sensory delight.

I’ve found it to be a quick grower, perfect for impatient gardeners like myself. It plays well with others too – I’ve trained it alongside other climbing plants for a lush, layered effect that blooms from mid-summer to early fall.

8. Bougainvillea

If you’re after a burst of color, bougainvillea is your best bet. In my garden, I’ve cultivated varieties in vibrant pinks, purples, and yellows, creating a tropical paradise in my own backyard.

I love how versatile bougainvillea is – it looks just as stunning spilling out of a small pot as it does climbing up a massive pergola. Plus, its resistance to pests and diseases means less work for me and more time to enjoy its beauty.

9. Sweet Pea (Lathyrus)

Sweet peas have stolen my heart with their delicate blooms and heavenly fragrance. These charming climbers prefer well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine.

In my warm climate, I plant them in fall for a spectacular spring show. If you’re in a cooler area, try planting in spring or early summer for best results.

10. Passion Flower (Passiflora)

Passion flowers bring a touch of the exotic to my garden. With over 500 species to choose from, there’s always a new variety to try.

I love combining passion flowers with early-blooming clematis for a dramatic effect. The contrast between the intricate passion flowers and the simpler clematis blooms is simply stunning.

11. Morning Glory

Morning glories are the early birds of my garden. Their funnel-shaped flowers unfurl each dawn in a palette of blues, reds, purples, and yellows.

There’s something special about stepping outside first thing in the morning to be greeted by these cheerful blooms. They’re like nature’s way of saying “Good morning!”

12. Climbing Hydrangea

Climbing hydrangeas have been a wonderful addition to my shaded garden areas. Their glossy, heart-shaped leaves provide year-round interest, while the fragrant white flower clusters light up the space in spring and summer.

These slow growers require a bit of patience and regular pruning, but the result is well worth the effort. They’ve turned a once-dull wall into a lush, living tapestry.

Summing it Up

Incorporating climbing flowers into your garden is a surefire way to add vertical interest, fragrance, and a touch of romance to your outdoor space. From the trumpet-shaped blooms of Campsis to the delicate petals of sweet peas, there’s a climbing flower to suit every taste and garden style.

Hi! I'm Emily!

I'm a mom who's passionate about creating beautiful gardens without the hassle. Here, I share simple tips that actually work for busy people like us.

From picking the right plants to making them thrive, I'll help you create an outdoor space you'll love!

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