Clematis

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Common Name

Traveller's joy, leather flower, vase vine, virgin's bower

Scientific Name

Clematis

Plant Category

Perennial

Location

North America, Asia, Europe

Height

12-24 inches

Width

4-6 inches

Blooming Season

Mid to late summer

Plant Habit

Climbing

Color

White, red, pink, violet or blue

Sun

Full sun

Soil

Moist, fertile, well-drained soil

Water

Moderate

Plant Characteristics

Climbing plant. Green foliage and medium drought tolerance.

Usage

Used at the front of borders. Suitable for growing in hanging baskets or pots on the patio.

Information

Clematis is a genus of mostly vigorous climbing lianas, with attractive flowers. Some species are shrubby, and some others are herbaceous perennial plants. Most clematis varieties produce single flowers. Some varieties produce double flowers while others produce both single and double flowers. Most double flowering varieties will bloom double on the previous season's growth, early in spring. Clematis enable the gardener to have masses of bloom from late winter to late fall. To accomplish this, varieties with different bloom times can be grown together or planted in complimentary areas of the garden.

Growing Tips

Clematis likes full sun, and moist, fertile, well drained soil. Plants should ideally be spaced 24"-36" apart. The roots are shallow, and should be shaded by growing other flowers around the base of the vine. The stem of the newly planted clematis needs to be securely but carefully attached to a support so that damage to the stem does not occur. Planting a small shrub in front will ensure a cool root run for the clematis. The use of mulch is not recommended, as clematis can suffer from wilt and fungus diseases present in decomposing mulch. The soil should be kept moist but not wet. Add an all purpose fertilizer once a month for best performance. Clematis need something to climb on. Sweet pea netting or plastic mesh work well.

Common Problems

One of the greatest attributes of clematis is the mass of blooms on such a delicate looking frame. But this can cause problems. If the plant is not securely attached to its host, the stems can be damaged. The resulting wounds provide a target for a wide range of fungi to attack. The plant then severely wilts or collapses. This happens most often when the plant is young. Another fungus that might affect clematis is mildew. It is seldom a problem until late in the season and not a problem at all if there is good air circulation. If mildew is noticed in its early stages it can be easily controlled by many different fungicides readily available.