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Clematis /ˈklɛmətɪs/

Common name: Clematis · Virgin's bower

Clematis is a genus of roughly 300 species of mostly climbing vines in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Often called the 'queen of the climbers', clematis vines produce showy flowers in a huge range of colors, shapes, and sizes. What look like petals are actually colorful sepals, since true clematis flowers lack petals.

Fun facts

  • The showy 'petals' of clematis flowers are actually sepals — the true petals are absent.
  • Clematis is often called the 'queen of the climbers' for its spectacular blooms.
  • An old gardener's rule: clematis like their 'head in the sun and feet in the shade'.

Care summary

Sun Sun on top, shade at the roots
Water Regular, deep watering; keep roots cool
Soil Rich, moist, well-draining, near-neutral
Hardiness Zones 4–9 (varies by species)
Mature height 2–12 m (6–40 ft) as climbing vines
Pet safe Toxic to cats and dogs

Common problems

    • Cut affected stems to healthy tissue
    • Plant the crown deep for regrowth
    • Keep roots cool, shaded and moist
    • Water at the base during dry spells
    • Improve air flow around the plant
    • Mulch to keep roots evenly moist
    • Protect emerging shoots in spring
    • Use wildlife-friendly slug controls
    • Hand-pick slugs after dusk
    • Shade the root zone with low plantings
    • Apply a thick organic mulch layer