| I'm searching for a tender, climbing green vine that grows in sun/partial shade in the Southeast U.S.(zone 8); The purpose is to grow on a stucco wall of my house. I prefer not use the traditional climbing ficus because I worry it's so tenacious that it might invade the stucco itself and cause moisture problems. I understand some gardens in Barcelona, Spain feature a "vine with tender tendrils" that has worked fine, climbing on old masonery. Can you suggest an appropriate plant of the purpose? |
| I would suggest you consider Campsis radicans, the Trumpet Creeper. There is a variety called 'Georgia' that has larger flowers which I have grown in the south and found very attractive. Another variety in the trade is 'Madam Galen'. Trumpet Creeper is deciduous and hardy in your area. Another option is English Ivy, provided the location doesn't get too much sun, especially late in the day. It is evergreen. There is also the wild Virginia Creeper (Parthenociccus quinquefolia) which is a rapid grower that is hardy, deciduous and has some fall color. You might also consider attaching a wire "curtain" just outside the stucco surface for twining vines to climb on. This would eliminate the concern over vines damaging the stucco, and significantly open up the number of choices you have for a beautiful vine in that location. Thanks for the question! |
