Looking to cover up those ugly walls or fences in your yard? I was stuck with the same problem until I found the perfect solution – vines that come back every year!
These climbing plants are amazing at turning boring spaces into beautiful garden spots, and they keep getting better year after year.
1. English Ivy
One of my absolute favorites is English Ivy! It’s like having a lush green carpet climbing up your walls all year round. Just a heads up though – don’t expect instant gratification with this beauty. Mine took about 2-3 years to really get going, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
2. Wisteria
Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Wisteria! Those drooping purple flowers are seriously jaw-dropping. The fragrance is absolutely divine – it’s like having your own natural perfume wafting through the garden.
Just remember to give it plenty of sun and space. I learned this the hard way when mine tried to take over my entire fence!
3. Star Jasmine
Star Jasmine has completely stolen my heart. Those sweet-smelling white flowers are like little stars scattered across the vine, and they’re total butterfly magnets!
The best thing about Star Jasmine? It’s super adaptable. Mine thrives in both my sunny front yard and that shady spot behind the garage.
4. Morning Glory
Let me introduce you to my favorite breakfast companion! These heavenly blue flowers open up just as I’m having my morning coffee. They start growing once temperatures hit 45°F, and guess what? They come in gorgeous reds, whites, and even two-toned varieties!
5. Golden Hops
You beer lovers are going to get a kick out of this one! Golden Hops isn’t just pretty – it’s actually used in making beer. The foliage starts out this gorgeous golden-green color and then shifts to lime green. In fall, it puts on an extra show with these adorable pine-scented cone shapes!
6. Trumpet Vine
Talk about a fast mover! My Trumpet Vine is like that energetic friend who’s always ready to party. The flowers look just like tiny trumpets in the most amazing yellows, oranges, and reds. Later, they turn into these cool beam-like seed pods that add winter interest.
7. Common Alamanda
Here’s my little slice of Brazil right in the backyard! This beauty (also called golden trumpet) loves it warm and humid – kind of like a tropical vacation! Fair warning though: it gets a bit pouty during harsh winters. The flowers are this incredible golden yellow with white throat markings that just make me smile.
8. Common Jasmine
Want to know what heaven smells like? Plant some Common Jasmine! Fun fact: it’s actually Pakistan’s national flower. Mine fills the whole garden with the most incredible scent on warm evenings.
9. Grapevine
Talk about a two-for-one deal! Not only does my grapevine look gorgeous, but it also gives me fresh grapes! It grows like crazy (hello, weekly pruning), but it’s totally worth it. Just make sure you give it well-drained soil and plenty of sun.
10. Clematis
This is my go-to recommendation for absolutely everyone! No matter where you live, there’s a Clematis variety that’ll work for you. Whether you’re dealing with freezing winters or scorching summers, these tough cookies can handle it all.
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11. Periwinkle
This little sweetheart (also known as Lady Winkle – isn’t that adorable?) is perfect for gardeners who want beauty without the fuss. The flowers come in the prettiest shades of blue, purple, white, and lavender. It’s originally from Europe and Southern Russia, but it feels right at home in my garden!
12. Virginia Creeper
Here’s my fall color superstar! While it can be a bit enthusiastic in spreading (okay, maybe a lot enthusiastic), the autumn show is absolutely worth it. Those green leaves turn the most stunning crimson when winter approaches.
13. Tropical Bleeding Heart
The name might sound dramatic, but wait until you see it! My Tropical Bleeding Heart is such a showstopper. It’s super easy to train on a trellis, and honestly, its rare beauty makes everyone think I’m some kind of gardening genius!
14. Climbing Rose
If you want pure drama in your garden, this is it! Mine creates the most incredible display of red blooms against green leaves. Just watch out for those thorns – I always keep my heavy-duty gardening gloves handy when working with these beauties!
15. Boston Ivy
This is my secret weapon for stunning fall color! The three-pronged leaves start green but put on the most incredible color show in autumn. Plus, it’s practically foolproof to grow, and you get cute little fruits as a bonus!
16. Climbing Hydrangea
Once this baby gets established, it’s the definition of low-maintenance beauty. The white flower clusters look like lace against the green leaves, and it’s so accommodating – happy in both sun and shade!
17. American Bittersweet
Here’s a true American native that’s stolen my heart! The yellow-green flowers might not look like much at first, but just wait until you see those orange-yellow berries in fall. They’re even edible (though I leave them for the birds)!
18. Perennial Sweet Pea
Want something that smells as sweet as honey and looks like butterflies? These climbers grow 6-8 feet tall with the right support. The flowers come in white, purple, and the most gorgeous deep rose pink you’ve ever seen!
19. Passion Flower Vine
If you’re feeling tropical, this one’s for you! Those purple and white flowers look like something from another planet. Mine took about two years to fruit, but the wait was totally worth it. It’s perfect for creating a shady retreat on hot summer days.
20. Akebia
Also known as the chocolate vine (yes, really!), this one smells like your favorite candy bar. The purplish-brown flowers might sound strange, but trust me, against the green leaves, they’re absolutely stunning!
21. Arctic Beauty
Don’t let the name fool you – this vine brings plenty of warmth to the garden! The white flowers show up early summer, followed by these adorable kiwi-like fruits. The leaves are heart-shaped with the prettiest pink and white variegation.
22. Honeysuckle
Oh my, the fragrance! My honeysuckle brings all the pollinators to the yard – butterflies, bees, and even hummingbirds can’t resist it! The tubular flowers come in yellow, white, and bright red, making it a real feast for the eyes.
23. Dutchman’s Pipe
Last but definitely not least, this quirky summer bloomer gets its name from flowers that look just like old-fashioned smoking pipes. It’s such a conversation starter in my garden, and everyone gets a kick out of those heart-shaped openings!