Chuck-will's Widow
Scott Gentling (1942-2011)
Heard the first ones of the season tonight 4/24/24, though my husband heard them 4/21/24.
Listen here.
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This ancient trumpet vine is perched on a holly tree. The tree is still alive, but barely. The trunk on this vine is massive and every year it becomes a hummingbird magnet. We toyed with the idea of cutting it and saving the holly, but I think I prefer the monster vine.
Some Trumpet Vine Facts & Uses
Trumpet vine, scientifically known as Campsis radicans, is a beautiful and vigorous flowering plant native to North America. It is revered not only for its stunning trumpet-shaped flowers but also for its intriguing lore and various uses. Here are some fascinating aspects of trumpet vine lore and its practical applications:
Symbolism and Folklore: In many cultures, the trumpet vine symbolizes vitality, transformation, and attracting positive energy. It is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. According to Native American folklore, the vibrant red-orange flowers of the trumpet vine represent passion and creativity.
Attracting Wildlife: Trumpet Vine is renowned for its ability to draw hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees with its nectar-rich flowers. It serves as an important food source for these pollinators, contributing to the ecological balance of the surrounding environment.
Medicinal Uses: The plant's bark, leaves, and roots have been used in herbal remedies to treat various conditions such as arthritis, inflammation, and digestive issues. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using trumpet vine for medicinal purposes.
Erosion Control: With its extensive root system and fast growth, trumpet vine is often used for erosion control on slopes and hillsides. Its dense foliage helps stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and creating a natural barrier against runoff.
Dyeing: The trumpet vine's flowers and leaves can be used as a natural dye to create vibrant shades of yellow and orange. This dyeing technique has been employed by traditional artisans and crafters to add color to fabrics, yarns, and other materials.
Wildlife Habitat: Trumpet vine also provides shelter and nesting sites for birds, offering them a safe haven in which to build their nests and raise their young. The dense foliage and sturdy branches of the vine create a welcoming habitat for small birds, contributing to biodiversity in the area.
Landscaping and Garden Uses: The trumpet vine is a popular choice for landscaping due to its striking appearance and ability to cover fences, trellises, and walls with its vigorous growth habit. Its cascading vines and bright flowers add a touch of beauty to gardens, attracting attention and creating a vibrant atmosphere.
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Campsis radicans (trumpet vine)
The perennial trumpet vine is a vigorous creeper, native to the eastern United States. The colonists in Virginia admired it and this plant quickly made its way to English gardens early in the 17th century. Trumpet vine likes a sunny, temperate climate and requires little more than a wall, a fence or a shrub to climb for support. Each of its many tendrils can grow 35 feet long in a good growing season.
We have friends who have a trumpet vine and they say that the weather this year in Vancouver stunted its growth. Our spring was long, cold and wet and the summer has been hot and very dry. This year’s weather didn’t do my little garlic patch any favors either. They were half the size of last year’s crop.
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