Overview
Bignonia capreolata L., commonly known as crossvine, is a species of flowering plant in the Bignoniaceae family. It is a woody vine that is native to the southeastern United States and is often cultivated for its ornamental value.
Appearance
The crossvine is a fast-growing vine that can reach heights of up to 50 feet. It has a woody stem that is covered in small, adhesive, green tendrils that allow it to climb on almost any surface. The leaves are opposite and compound, with 4-6 pairs of glossy, dark green leaflets. They have a smooth texture and a lanceolate-oblong shape, and can grow up to 6 inches long. The trumpet-shaped flowers are two-toned, with an orange-red exterior and a yellow throat, and bloom in mid to late spring. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open when ripe, releasing many winged seeds.
Uses
The crossvine is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its beautiful flowers and foliage. It is often used as a cover for trellises, walls, and fences, as it is a fast-growing and hardy climber. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including snakebites and skin infections. The bark and roots contain compounds that have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In addition, the plant is a food source for the larvae of some butterflies and moths.
Common Names
Besides crossvine, Bignonia capreolata L. has a few other common names that include trumpet flower and quarter vine due to its leaves growing in pairs of four.
Light Requirements
Bignonia capreolata L. prefers full sun to partial shade for proper growth and development. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. However, it can also withstand some shade but may not bloom as abundantly. During the winter season, it can tolerate low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the southeastern United States and grows well in a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range for Bignonia capreolata L. is between 60°F to 85°F (15.5°C to 29.5°C). It cannot tolerate frost, so it is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 7-11. A frost-free growing season length of at least 200 days is recommended to facilitate proper growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
Bignonia capreolata L. prefers well-drained and slightly acidic to neutral soil. The optimum pH range for the growth of this plant is between 6.0 and 7.5. It can grow in various soil types such as sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the soil should be rich in organic matter and provide good drainage to prevent root rot. It is also recommended to add compost or other organic matter before planting to improve the soil quality and structure.
Cultivation Methods
Bignonia capreolata L. plant can be grown in either full sun or partial shade. It requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. The recommended time for planting is during the spring season. Plant the seeds or stem cuttings in a hole that is at least two times larger than their sizes. Cover them with soil and water them adequately.
Watering needs
Bignonia capreolata L. plant requires adequate watering during hot and dry seasons to ensure that the soil remains moist. Watering should be done once or twice a week, depending on the soil's drainage and the weather conditions.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer to Bignonia capreolata L. plant is not mandatory. If you desire to boost plant growth and enhance its blooming, you can add a slow-release fertilizer once per year during the spring season.
Pruning
Pruning Bignonia capreolata L. plant is simple and straightforward. You can prune the plant once per year either during late winter or early spring before the blooming period. Use sterilized pruning scissors to cut the stems, removing dead or damaged branches and control the plant's shape. This pruning method will ensure that the plant is rejuvenated and continues to bloom effectively.
Propagation of Bignonia Capreolata L.
Bignonia capreolata L., commonly known as the crossvine, is a deciduous climber of the family Bignoniaceae. Propagation is a process of producing new plants from existing ones. There are two main methods of propagating crossvine: sexual and asexual.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation or seed propagation involves growing plants from seeds. Collect mature pods from the crossvine and let them dry. Once dry, remove the seeds from the pods. Soak the seeds in water for 24-48 hours before sowing in pots or in the ground. Sow the seeds approximately 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil. Water the seeds and place the pots or soil bed in a warm, sunny location. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Germination typically occurs within two to four weeks, depending on temperature and seed quality.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation or vegetative propagation involves growing plants without seeds. The crossvine is easily propagated through layering or stem cuttings.
Layering: Layering involves forcing a stem to grow roots while still attached to the parent plant. Select a healthy stem that is flexible and bend it gently to the ground. Use a sharp knife to scrape off the bark on the stem at the point where it will touch the soil. Apply rooting hormone to the wound. Cover the stem with soil and hold it in place with a piece of wire or garden stake. Keep the soil moist and wait for roots to form. Once roots are established, detach the new plant from the parent plant and transplant it to a new location.
Stem cuttings: Stem cuttings involve taking a piece of stem and encouraging it to grow roots. Select a healthy stem and take a cutting that is 6 to 8 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, sunny location. Once roots are established, transplant the new plant to a new location.
Regardless of the method of propagation, the newly planted crossvine should be watered regularly and provided with appropriate nutrients. With proper care, the crossvine will thrive and provide a beautiful display of flowers each spring and summer.
Disease Management
Bignonia capreolata, also known as crossvine, is susceptible to two primary diseases:
1. Crossvine bacterial leaf spot:
It is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris and is characterized by brown spots with yellow halos on the leaves.
To manage crossvine bacterial leaf spot, remove and destroy the infected leaves and stems as soon as the symptoms appear to prevent further spread. Also, avoid overhead watering, which can spread the disease. Use copper-based fungicides for effective control.
2. Crossvine fungal leaf spot:
This leaf spot is caused by the fungus Eupenicillium cinnamopurpureum and is characterized by small, circular, brown spots on the leaves.
To prevent crossvine fungal leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and improper fertilization. Use fungicides containing copper hydroxide for effective control.
Pest Management
Bignonia capreolata is relatively pest-free, but a few pests can occasionally infest it. The following are some common pests that might affect crossvine:
1. Crossvine scale:
The scale is a tiny insect that runs on the stems and leaves' undersides, producing a sticky substance. This substance is known as honeydew and attracts other insects, such as ants, wasps, and flies.
To manage crossvine scale, prune and discard the infested plant parts. Use horticultural oil sprays to control the scale insects' population.
2. Crossvine caterpillar:
The caterpillars of Tersa sphinx feed on crossvine leaves, making them look ragged and unattractive.
To manage crossvine caterpillar, remove and destroy the infected leaves and stems. Handpicking the caterpillar population is effective for small infestations. For larger infestations, use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a biological caterpillar control agent.
Conclusion
Overall, keeping your crossvine healthy and stress-free is the best defense against pests and diseases. Regular pruning, proper fertilization, and adequate watering can help keep your plant healthy and prevent pest and disease infestations.
