If you want stunning flowers without the investment, consider annual climbing plants. These remarkable plants can transform a garden in just one season.
Unlike perennials, which take time to establish, annual climbers burst into action, showcasing their full potential in a single year. They often reach their peak during fall, providing a beautiful display as other plants fade. Here are five climbing annuals you shouldn't miss.
1. Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea)
Morning Glory is a fantastic climbing plant. Seeds are affordable and easy to sow, producing blooms that last until the first frost.
Known as 'Morning Glory', this quick-growing vine can reach up to 10ft in just one season.
Technically a short-lived perennial, it's usually treated as an annual as most varieties die off when the weather turns cold. If you're in USDA Zones 9-11, it might return in spring, but it's primarily a one-season plant. Easy-to-grow seeds make it a hassle-free choice.
The vines are great for twining around structures, so keep their height in mind. They produce flowers in colors like cerulean blue, deep purple, and light baby blue. My favorite is the Carnevale di Venezia Morning Glory Seeds, which add a festive vibe to any garden.
Height: 6-10ft
Aspect: Full sun, favoring south or west-facing walls with 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
Where to buy: Mixed morning glory seeds are available at True Leaf Market.
2. Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)
Summer wouldn't be complete without sweet peas. These delightful plants grow quickly on trellises and, as cut-and-come-again flowers, they reward you with more blooms as you pick them for arrangements.
Though they're straightforward annuals that die off each season, they're hardworking and a favorite among bees and butterflies. Available at reasonable prices, selecting various sweet pea types ensures blooms from summer into winter.
One of the easiest flowers to grow, try different varieties to find your favorites. Lathyrus odoratus 'Matucana' is particularly loved for its captivating fragrance.
Height: Up to 12ft
Aspect: Full sun
Where to buy: For beginners, a sweet pea mix like this one at Burpee is a great option.
3. Purple Bell Vine (Rhodochiton)
This stunning annual, native to Mexico, is technically a perennial but thrives as an annual in cooler climates. Its rapid growth is impressive.
One of the longest-flowering climbers, it blooms from spring until late November. My Rhodochiton, sheltered against a warm wall in my garden, often blooms into December.
It's a favorite for attracting hummingbirds, as well as bees and butterflies, due to its near-constant nectar supply.
Height: 2.4m (8ft)
Aspect: Grows best in full sun or partial shade on a climbing support.
Where to buy: You can get purple bell vine seeds from Eden Brothers.
4. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)
Nasturtiums come in a variety of impressive types, making them addictive to grow. They sprout quickly, even when sown in summer, allowing you to enjoy blooms without waiting long.
Nasturtium 'Spitfire' is a burst of vibrant color that will captivate visitors. You can find 'Spitfire' seeds at Burpee. They thrive in shady spots and pots. Another stunning option is Nasturtium 'Empress of India', available at Burpee, with its deep green and crimson foliage, is also a beautiful choice.
Height: Varieties vary, but most climbers reach about 2-3ft.
Aspect: Full sun
Where to buy: You can find a variety of nasturtium seeds at Eden Brothers.
5. Thunbergia (Black-eyed Susan Vine)
Thunbergia, known as 'black-eyed Susan vine', is an exceptional annual climber that blooms abundantly until the first hard frost, covering itself in flowers early on.
Don't confuse it with the daisy-like 'black-eyed Susan' from the sunflower family; this vigorous annual adds height and beauty to your garden quickly.
It looks stunning in a sunny cottage garden border and can climb trellises, fences, and hanging baskets. Pairing Thunbergia with purple bell vine creates a striking combination.
Height: 3-4ft
Aspect: Prefers full sun but can handle some shade.
Where to buy: Several color options exist beyond the typical yellow, including earthy terracotta and bronze shades. My favorite is the lovely apricot-rose hue of the 'African Sunset' variety with its signature dark center.
Supporting Your Climbers
Investing in an attractive obelisk doesn't have to break the bank. I prefer those with a natural rust finish for a charming look.
This expandable wooden trellis adjusts to suit your climbing plants, offering ample space for growth.
Hanging baskets can also be budget-friendly. Choose eco-friendly options that allow for beautiful plant displays without overspending.
These climbing annuals are among the top choices for annual flowers, alongside must-haves like cosmos and zinnias. To extend their blooming season, make sure to deadhead regularly; otherwise, they require minimal maintenance.
If you love your blooms, consider collecting seeds for next year's garden.
