13 Climbing Plants That Add Beauty but Pose Safety Risks

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Climbing plants can be a stunning addition to gardens or outdoor spaces. Their vibrant foliage and blossoms create a lush, decorative appearance. Many species are fast-growing and require little maintenance, making them popular for gardeners looking to achieve quick results.

Beautiful as many climbers are, some out-of-control species can become invasive, suffocating other plants and even causing displacement to buildings and structures. Below are 13 climbing plants that can be beautiful as well as dangerous.

Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis)

The cascading purple blooms of wisteria are a beautiful sight but this vigorous climber can be aggressive and heavy. If not kept in check, its thick vines may grow over trellises or fences and cause damage. Wisteria seed pods are highly toxic, containing a significant amount of poisonous seeds. Ingesting them poses a danger to humans, animals, and pets.

Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris)

This variety of hydrangea has delicate white flowers and ability to grow in shade. Conversely, it could pull off paint, brickwork or siding from a wall. They are additionally low in cyanogenic glycosides that can be toxic to pets or toddlers if ingested.

Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)

Also known as the “cow-itch vine,” the trumpet vine produces vibrant orange-red flowers that attract hummingbirds. Unfortunately, it spreads rapidly and can cause significant structural damage. Its invasive root system can damage foundations, and sap can cause skin irritation.

Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata)

Photo Credit: Johann Jaritz/Wikimedia Commons

Boston ivy is beautiful in autumn when it turns to red and purple, but it also has very strong tendrils that can get a hold on anything vertical like walls or other structures which will eventually cause damage. Although this is non-toxic, it may capture moisture against walls that will cause wood or brick to rot and may also lead to mold growth.

Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)

Poison ivy is a climbing plant that can surreptitiously crop up in gardens. The leaves of the plant contain urushiol, an irritant that on contact causes a severe skin rash in most people. Finding poison ivy and immediately eliminating it is crucial.

Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)

This well-known climber can turn heads with its vibrant flowers, but the thorny branches will be a physical hazard in any garden inhabited by children and animals. The thorns are sharp enough to draw blood and do injury. The sap also causes skin irritation in some sensitive individuals.

Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.)

Morning glories produce gorgeous, trumpet shaped flowers. They are invasive and can become a problem in gardens. Some species of morning glory also produce seeds containing potentially toxic compounds with powerful hallucinogenic or other psychoactive effects.

Clematis (Clematis spp.)

Clematis is a vigorous vine that needs plenty of division so it doesn’t fall on its own weight to also damage fences or trellises. Some species of clematis are even considered slightly toxic if consumed, resulting in gastrointestinal upset or skin irritation.

English Ivy (Hedera helix)

Known for its glossy leaves and ability to cover entire walls, English ivy is a popular choice for adding charm to homes. However, it can cause structural damage by weakening bricks and mortar as it climbs. Also, if ingested, English ivy is toxic to pets and humans, and contact with its leaves can sometimes cause skin irritation.

Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)

Though there are varieties which smell good like the jasmine with a sweet scent and star-shaped flowers, varieties such as Carolina Jasmine (Gelsemium sempervirens), contain toxic alkaloids. Consuming relatively little can result in nausea, dizziness or respiratory paralysis.

Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)

Photo Credit: Franzgorg/Wikimedia Commons

Often mistaken for poison ivy, the Virginia Creeper is a rapid-grower that can envelop walls and structures. The berries are poisonous if eaten and can be deadly in large numbers. The plant can also irritate the skin of people who are allergic.

Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.)

Honeysuckle has sweetly scented flowers, but its rapid growth can make it invasive in certain areas. Its dense foliage can damage fences or other supports. Some honeysuckle species produce berries that are toxic to humans, pets, and livestock.

Climbing Rose (Rosa spp.)

View of a White Wooden Fence and a Large Pink Rosebush — Photo Credit: Dalia Al-Refai/Pexels

Climbing roses are classic additions to any garden, with their delicate flowers. However, their thorny stems can cause physical injuries if not carefully maintained. In addition to the risk of scratches, these thorns can harbor bacteria that cause infections.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.