I was given a Campsis radicans ‘Galen.’ I’ve heard this vine can be
invasive. Do I dare plant it? What do I need to be wary of?
Campsis radicans is certainly aggressive and potentially invasive in some areas, but to
what degree depends on where you live. It is listed as a weed in the
Northeast, the South, and Kentucky. The Missouri Botanical Garden has another profile of this plant.
I have seen it growing here in Seattle, and it seems to do well but
perhaps not so well that it is a major concern in this area. Since it
spreads by runners and seeds, keep it trimmed and do not let the flowers
go to seed. Wear gloves when handling it, as it can be a skin irritant.