If your fence still looks bare in early summer, don’t worry—there’s still time to turn it into a wall of blooms. Some fast-growing climbing flowers can go from seedlings to full-on showstoppers by August, wrapping fences, trellises, or railings in vibrant color, fragrance, and life.
In this article, we’re highlighting 16 climbing plants that are not only quick to grow, but also burst into bloom in late summer, just when many other plants begin to fade. Think morning glories, sweet peas, black-eyed Susan vine, and other bloomers that thrive with a little support and sunshine.
Whether you’re trying to hide an eyesore, add privacy, or simply want a romantic garden vibe, these speedy climbers deliver beauty and coverage with surprisingly little effort. All they need is a place to climb—and you’ll have a living fence in no time.
Clematis
Clematis is the star of any garden, showcasing a tapestry of colors and shapes. These versatile climbers thrive in well-drained soil and sunny spots. Their ability to blanket fences with vibrant blooms from spring to late summer makes them a favorite. With varieties like ‘Jackmanii’ and ‘Nelly Moser’, the palette ranges from deep purples to soft pinks. Clematis needs their roots in shade and blooms in sun, a unique trait among climbers. A splash of mulch keeps them happy. Perfect for adding vertical interest, they’re a true garden delight.
Morning Glory
Morning Glory, the early riser, greets each day with trumpet-like blooms. These fast-growing vines are known for their vibrant hues, especially the classic blue. They thrive in full sun, wrapping fences with enchanting spirals. By mid-summer, they transform ordinary structures into breathtaking flower walls. While they bloom bountifully, their seeds can be invasive, requiring a bit of care. Their delicate beauty paired with vigorous growth makes them ideal for quick coverage. A symbol of rebirth and renewal, Morning Glory enchants gardeners worldwide.
Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle is the aromatic herald of summer evenings. Known for its sweet scent, it attracts hummingbirds and butterflies with ease. These vines flourish in both sun and partial shade, wrapping fences with a mix of white, yellow, and coral hues. As an added bonus, they’re perfect for attracting wildlife to your garden. Though robust, they need pruning to maintain their charm. Each bloom is a promise of fragrant nights and lively days. Honeysuckle transforms ordinary spaces into sensory retreats, enchanting all who pass by.
Wisteria
Wisteria brings a touch of elegance with its cascading clusters of lilac flowers. These climbers are robust, demanding sturdy support as they mature. Thriving in full sun, Wisteria provides a grand display in late spring and early summer, spilling over fences with grace. Their twining stems create serene, fragrant canopies. However, patience is key, as they may take a few years to bloom. Once they do, they reward with lavish beauty. A symbol of devotion in many cultures, Wisteria is a breathtaking addition to any garden.
Passionflower
Passionflower captivates with its exotic, intricate blooms, resembling nature’s masterpieces. These unique flowers intrigue with their complex structures and vibrant colors. Perfect for sunny spots, they climb fences with ease, offering a tropical flair. Some varieties even produce edible fruit, adding to their allure. Passionflowers are a haven for pollinators, bringing life and movement to gardens. While tolerant of various soils, they prefer well-drained conditions. Known for their calming properties, these flowers are both a visual and aromatic treat.
Trumpet Vine
Trumpet Vine boasts bold, trumpet-shaped blooms that are a magnet for hummingbirds. These assertive climbers thrive in sunny locales, rapidly covering fences with vivid orange and red flowers. Their robust nature makes them ideal for creating vibrant vertical displays. However, they require monitoring, as their growth can be overwhelming. Regular pruning tames their enthusiasm. Despite their vigor, they offer a spectacular summer showcase. Trumpet Vines bring energy and excitement, turning gardens into lively, colorful retreats.
Sweet Pea
Sweet Pea charms with its delicate, fragrant blossoms in a spectrum of pastels. Known for their enchanting scent, these climbers are a garden staple. Preferring cooler climates, they grace fences with elegance and grace, making them perfect for spring and early summer gardens. Though annuals, they reseed, providing ongoing beauty. Their blossoms, reminiscent of fine silk, add a touch of romance and nostalgia. Ideal for cut flowers, Sweet Peas bring indoor charm and fragrance, delighting with every bloom.
Climbing Hydrangea
Climbing Hydrangea is the epitome of elegance and resilience. With its white lacecap blooms, it transforms shaded fences into fairytale settings. Unique among climbers, it thrives in partial to full shade, offering versatility in garden design. Its self-clinging nature makes it easy to establish, requiring minimal support. Slow to start, but once rooted, it rewards with lush foliage and charming flowers. The textured bark adds winter interest, ensuring year-round appeal. Climbing Hydrangeas create serene, sophisticated garden spaces.
Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea dazzles with its vivid, papery bracts in hues of magenta, orange, and red. Perfect for sunny, warm climates, these climbers create striking displays. Their vibrant colors transform fences into tropical paradises, adding drama and flair. Known for their drought tolerance, they’re ideal for low-maintenance gardens. While thorny, their beauty outweighs the deterrent. With careful training and pruning, Bougainvillea becomes a living tapestry of color, enhancing any outdoor space with its Mediterranean charm.
Jasmine
Jasmine enchants with its stars of white, exuding a fragrance that ignites the senses. These climbers adore sunny locations and well-drained soil, rewarding gardeners with blooms that perfume the night air. A favorite in cottage gardens, they bring romance and nostalgia to fences and trellises. Though delicate in appearance, Jasmine is a resilient companion, enduring hot summers with ease. Their intoxicating scent creates magical, moonlit garden escapes. Perfect for sensory gardens, they invite relaxation and contemplation.
Ivy Geranium
Ivy Geranium adds a splash of color with its cascading blooms and glossy leaves. Perfect for sunny spots, these climbers thrive in hanging baskets and fence lines. Their long-lasting flowers range from soft pinks to deep reds, offering months of vibrant display. Ivy Geraniums are also drought-resistant, making them a favorite for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options. Their cheerful presence brightens any garden, bringing a touch of cottage charm to urban and rural landscapes alike.
Star Jasmine
Star Jasmine, a perennial favorite, captivates with its glossy leaves and fragrant white blooms. These climbers are perfect for sunny or partially shaded areas, where they effortlessly cover fences. Known for their enchanting scent, Star Jasmine creates unforgettable garden experiences. Their evergreen nature ensures year-round greenery, providing both beauty and privacy. Easy to train and hardy, they’re a versatile choice for creating living screens and scented pathways. Star Jasmine transforms outdoor spaces with its timeless elegance.
Hyacinth Bean
Hyacinth Bean is a feast for the eyes with its purple flowers and ornamental pods. This fast-growing annual is perfect for sunny spots, where it quickly climbs fences. Its unique combination of blooms and pods adds interest and color throughout the growing season. Though primarily decorative, young pods are edible, adding utility to beauty. Often found in heirloom gardens, Hyacinth Bean brings a touch of history and exotic flair. Ideal for adding vertical intrigue, this vine is a conversation starter.
Canary Creeper
Canary Creeper adds whimsy with its bright yellow blossoms and delicate greenery. This annual vine delights in sunny areas, where it quickly adorns fences with its cheerful flowers. Its soft, lace-like leaves offer a unique texture contrast, enhancing garden aesthetics. Perfect for playful and informal garden settings, Canary Creeper brings a sense of joy and lightness. Easy to grow, it’s a delightful choice for novice and experienced gardeners alike, offering vibrant color and charm through late summer.
Chocolate Vine
Chocolate Vine intrigues with its unusual, aromatic flowers and lush greenery. Preferring partial shade, it transforms fences into exotic retreats. Its chocolate-scented blooms are as delightful as they are rare, offering a multi-sensory garden experience. Chocolate Vine is hardy, withstanding various climates and requiring minimal care. Its tendrils weave intricate patterns, creating natural artistry on garden structures. Perfect for adding mystery and allure, this vine captivates with both its scent and aesthetics, making it a garden treasure.