Vines are plants that climb vertically with the help of support structures like fences, trellises, or other plants. These plants bloom with beautiful flowers in various colors, shapes, and sizes, adding vertical interest and vibrant color to gardens or other landscapes.
Finding flowering vines that bloom all year can be a bit challenging as most plants have specific blooming seasons. However, some vines may bloom intermittently throughout the year, especially in regions with mild climates. Here’s a list of 20 evergreen flowering vines:
1. Clematis (Clematis spp.)
Clematic refers to a diverse species that offers a wide range of flower colors, shapes, and sizes. Some varieties are evergreen, making them attractive even in winter. Their blooming season varies depending on the variety.
Moreover, while some varieties offer early spring blooms (like Clematis alpina), others bloom in the fall (C. terniflora). Many even rebloom later in the summer. Most clematis prefer full sun with well-drained soil but tolerate some shade. Choose the variety based on your specific climate and desired bloom time.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Varies by species (usually 4–9)
- Sun Exposure: Full sun for the vine, but roots prefer shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Rich, well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Mulch to keep roots cool, prune according to the type of clematis
2. Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)
Bougainvillea is a stunning genus of flowering vines, known for their vibrant and papery bracts that resemble flowers. These tropical climbers boast a long blooming season, making them popular choices for adding a touch of exotic flair to gardens and landscapes.
The bloom period is nearly year-round in frost-free regions, but blooms can be sporadic in cooler climates. They need warm temperatures and protection from frost.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 5.5–6.0
- Helpful Tips: Provide support for climbing, avoid overwatering.
3. Mandevilla (Mandevilla spp.)
Also known as Chilean jasmine or rock trumpet, the Mandevilla is a genus of stunning tropical and subtropical flowering vines from the Apocynaceae family. These vibrant climbers are famed for their spectacular flowers that bloom prolifically in warm climates, adding a touch of the tropics to gardens and homes. These plants require support structures such as trellises, fences, or arches to climb and showcase their beauty.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil
- Helpful Tips: Provide support for climbing, and keep soil consistently moist.
4. Allamanda (Allamanda spp.)
These flowery vines are stunning tropical climbers known for their vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers and lush green foliage. These evergreen beauties are natives of the Americas, ranging from Mexico to Argentina. They are ideal for USDA zones 10–12, though colder zones can enjoy them as container plants brought indoors during the winter.
While several Allamanda species exist, the most commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes is Allamanda cathartica. This variety is also known as the golden trumpet vine or yellow allamanda.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–11
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Protect from frost, and provide regular watering during the growing season.
5. Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea petiolaris)
Climbing hydrangeas are stunning vines with minimal maintenance requirements. These plants bring vibrant blooms and year-round beauty to your garden.
Additionally, their growing habit of twining vines and aerial roots enables them to climb structures like walls, fences, trellises, or trees. They can reach 30-80 feet tall and 6–10 feet wide, though their growth rate is moderate in the first few years.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
- Sun Exposure: Part shade to full shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Rich, moist, well-draining soil, pH 5.5–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Protect from the hot afternoon sun
6. Wisteria (Wisteria spp.)
Wisteria vines are known for their cascading clusters of fragrant flowers, creating a breathtaking spectacle in spring. Belonging to the Fabaceae (legume) family, the vine boasts four main species native to China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam.
Furthermore, the Chinese Wisteria variety can be highly invasive, quickly overtaking other plants and even structures. Plant responsibly, and consider native alternatives if invasive potential is a concern. Learn how to grow and care for wisteria vines.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9, depending on species
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.5
- Helpful Tips: Regular pruning is crucial for controlling their growth and promoting flowering
7. Passionflower (Passiflora spp.)
Passionflower vines produce stunning, intricate blooms, but achieving year-round blooming can be challenging even with the best choices. However, several varieties offer extended blooming periods, adding vibrant color and exotic flair to your landscape for most of the year.
To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers regularly. Fertilize lightly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Learn how to grow and care for passion fruit flowers.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Varies by species (usually 6–11)
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
8. Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus)
Sweet peas are beloved for their vibrant, butterfly-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance, making them popular choices for gardens, containers, and cut flower arrangements. Pay attention to the specific needs of sweet peas in your region and provide adequate support and care for optimal growth and blooming.
Provide support for climbing using trellises or fences, regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist, and deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 2–11 (Usually grown as an annual)
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining, fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.5
- Helpful Tips: Avoid planting near onions or garlic, as they can inhibit growth.
9. Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.)
Honeysuckles are widely known for their sweetly fragrant flowers, which attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies. Additionally, some species produce edible berries that birds enjoy.
Flowering typically occurs in late spring or early summer. The duration varies depending on the species and climate, but it can last for several weeks. Be aware that some honeysuckle species, particularly invasive ones, can aggressively spread and harm native ecosystems.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and then again after the first flush of blooms
10. Black-Eyed Susan Vine (Thunbergia alata)
This vibrant tropical perennial is often grown as an annual in cooler climates. It’s known for its climbing habit, fast growth, and cheerful, daisy-like flowers with contrasting dark centers.
The Black-Eyed Susan Vine offers a long and impressive blooming period, adding warmth and color to your garden from early summer until the first frost. With full sun, well-drained soil, and warm temperatures, the vines can reach up to 10–15 feet.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Pinch off new growth tips in early summer to encourage branching and produce a bushier plant with more flowers
11. Moonflower (Ipomoea alba)
The moonflower vine, also called Datura metel, is a stunning night-blooming vine native to tropical America. It features large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers that unfurl and release their sweet fragrance in the evening, attracting moths and other night pollinators.
While technically not a true vine that climbs on its own, it can twine around support structures like trellises or fences. On average, the plant can reach up to 10–15 feet in height.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–12.
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil condition/pH: well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5
- Helpful Tips: Feed your Moonflower vine with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season
12. Scarlet Runner Beans (Phaseolus coccineus)
The scarlet runner bean, also known as the multiflora bean or butter bean, is a stunning and versatile climbing plant that offers both beauty and bounty to your garden. From mid-summer to early fall, the Scarlet Runner Bean bursts into bloom, gracing your garden with clusters of vibrant scarlet flowers.
Often described as trumpet-shaped or resembling snapdragons, these flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, adding to the lively ambiance.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual (Can be grown in all zones)
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Sow seeds directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed
13. Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus)
The Hyacinth Bean vine, also known as Dolichos lablab or Lablab purpureus, is a stunning tropical vine grown as an annual in cooler climates. It features vibrant purple stems, lush dark green foliage with a purple tinge, and clusters of amethyst and violet blossoms cascading down the vine.
These vines typically flower throughout the warm summer months, offering a continuous show of color. The young pods are edible and can be enjoyed similar to green beans. Meanwhile, the mature seeds are a good source of protein and are used in various dishes in different cultures.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.5
- Helpful Tips: Harvest young pods when they are tender and green
14. Firecracker Vine (Ipomoea lobata)
The Firecracker Vine (Ipomoea lobata) is a stunning annual vine native to Mexico and parts of South America. It’s known for its vibrant blooms and ease of care, making it a popular choice for home gardeners. The vines are fast-growing, reaching up to 10–20 feet tall in a single season.
Moreover, they have tubular flowers in a range of orange, red, and yellow, resembling a Spanish flag. There flowers bloom from mid-summer to the first frost, offering a long-lasting display of color.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–11
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 5.5–6.5
- Helpful Tips: Protect from frost and cold drafts
15. Nasturtium (Tropaeloum majus)
The Nasturtium vine, also called the Indian Cress vine (Tropaeolum majus), is an annual vining plant known with vibrant blooms and edible foliage. The vines can reach up to 8 to 10 feet long, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
These plants start blooming in early summer and continue until the first frost, offering months of vibrant color. The flowers are available in a wide range of colors, including orange, yellow, red, pink, and even bicolors. These fast-growing flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your garden.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual (Can be grown in all zones)
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Avoid fertilizing to promote flowering
16. Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)
The star jasmine vine is a stunning evergreen climber adorned with fragrant white, star-shaped flowers. Its glossy, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance year-round.
Likewise, the sweet jasmine scent fills the air during its long blooming period, typically stretching from late spring to summer. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil and provide a sturdy support structure for it to climb.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.5
- Helpful Tips: Water regularly, especially during hot weather
17. Chocolate Vine (Akebia quinata)
The Chocolate Vine (Akebia quinata), also known as the five-leaf akebia, is a charming and versatile climbing vine native to East Asia. Its attractive features go beyond its name. Its slender, woody vines can reach up to 10 meters (30 ft) in height, gracefully clambering over trellises, fences, or pergolas.
Springtime brings the true magic as the vine erupts in clusters of maroon-chocolate colored flowers, aptly named for their sweet, slightly chocolaty fragrance.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 5.5–7.0
- Helpful Tips: can be invasive in some areas, so prune to control growth
18. Bleeding Heart Vine (Clerodendrum thomsoni)
The bleeding heart vine, also known as the Glory Bower, is a tropical vine with heart-shaped, white-tipped red flowers. The shape of these flowers resemble drops of blood, hence the name. This fast-growing climber boasts lush, dark green foliage with contrasting light green margins.
The plant delights gardeners with its extended blooming season, typically starting in late spring and continuing through fall. In warmer climates, sporadic blooms may even persist into the early winter. Learn about bleeding heart flower care.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–11
- Sun Exposure: Part shade to full shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Protect from the direct sun and provide support for climbing
19. Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.)
Morning glories, encompassing the vast genus Ipomoea with over 600 species, are a diverse group of vining plants. These vibrant climbers weave magic in gardens, showcasing their beauty from early summer to the first frost.
Their slender, twining vines, coupled with heart-shaped leaves, can reach impressive heights. They can climb over fences, trellises, or even mailboxes. These plamts bloom throughout the warm season, typically from early summer to fall, offering months of visual delight.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: Varies by species (usually annuals or perennials in zones 9–11)
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.5
- Helpful Tips: Can become invasive, so monitor grand growth, and provide support for climbing
20. Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
The Trumpet Honeysuckle, also referred to as the coral honeysuckle or scarlet honeysuckle, is a beautiful and popular flowering vine native to the eastern United States. It’s known for its vibrant red, orange, or yellow trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
These Honeysuckles have twining vines that can reach up to 20 feet (6 meters) in height. The bright red berries that follow the flowers are attractive to birds but are not recommended for human consumption.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Condition/pH: Well-draining soil, pH 6.0–7.0
- Helpful Tips: Provide support for climbing, and keep the soil consistently moist