Clematis are the most popular vines and known for having very attractive flowers. Planting two to three different varieties of various colors will provide an abundance of blooms and a continuous display of color for your garden. They have a reputation as challenging to grow, but with a few tricks, you will love having them around.

Clematis Characteristics:

  • Perennial vines producing large flowering buds that hummingbirds love
  • Trellises or archways are needed for support; can also be trained to grow over rocks or among shrubbery
  • Full sun is desired for the spring months and partial shade throughout the summer
  • Roots prefer to be shaded and undisturbed
  • Soil requirements: well-drained, fertile, and low acidity levels Pruning – Clematis are Divided into 3 Prune Groups
    • Group A:  Prune these species tidy after flowering by removing any dead or damaged stems, to keep a healthy looking plant (this refers to early flowering species who form flowering buds on the previous year’s shoots).
    • Group B:  Remove any dead or damaged stems before new growth begins, lightly in April  (this refers to the mid-season, large-flowered cultivars who form flowering buds on the previous year’s shoots).
    • Group C:  Cut hardily in April (cut back all the previous year’s stems ) to within 30″ of soil, just before the new growth begins (this refers to late, small and large flowered cultivars who form flowering buds on the current year’s shoots).

Check the chart below for a list of varieties!


Clematis Chart