Englishwoman Kathleen Goodman selected this hardy AGM winner as a welcome, easily cultivated improvement over its parent Clematis alpina ‘Ruby’. Abundant nodding blooms garnish thin twining stems and attractive deciduous leaflets, which shape a reliable small-statured habit. With charm to spare, the deep rosy pink bell-shaped flowers showcase a prominent outer layer of long central, petal-like sterile white stamens, followed by playful swirls of eye-catching fuzzy seed heads. Ideal for tight spaces plus intimate garden settings, a north-facing wall or patio container, ‘Constance’ delivers moderate growth and a floriferous early spring gala in well-draining sunny or brightly shaded sites.

Blooms April–May

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Blooms April–May

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Honored with the same name as the musical luminary Jacqueline du Pré, this Clematis harmoniously orchestrates bright green deciduous leaves arranged in threes, maroon-tinged stems and large, freely borne rosy mauve flowers. Suspended from long stalks, pointed dusky mulberry-hued buds reveal light-centered, semipendent blooms composed of four separate, out curving tepals with pale-blushed margins and darker orchid shades on the exterior.

A shimmering overture announcing spring’s arrival, the dainty floral display garnishes a vigorous, cold hardy vine, acquiescing to both cool, shady northern spots and sunny, more exposed locations.

Blooms April – May.

Size: 8' 0" – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Celebrated as the most popular nonclimbing Clematis and the longest flowering of all Clematis, this 2002 AGM champion promotes plentiful, rounded bright blue-mauve flowers from spring through fall upon a winsome, semiherbaceous shrubby habit. The incessant, 3 in. wide blooms initially glow with a reddish cast, then fade to soft blue, each defined by 4 to 8 classy pear-shaped tepals surrounding pronounced creamy yellow stamens. An exceptional integrifolia descendant well-suited for any garden, ‘Arabella’ can tumble down walls, weave through medium-sized shrubs in a mixed border or forge a compact flowering ground cover.

Blooms June–early-October

Size: 3' 0" – 6' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Lolling upon vigorous, yet slightly tender, polished foliage, vanilla-scented, eye-catching clusters of white saucer-shaped 2 to 2 ½ in. flowers are defined by yellow stamens and 4 to 6 well-spaced broad tepals with pink flip sides. Sprightly rose-colored buds and bronze-tinged stems further enhance the long, boat-shaped dark green leaves, which sport conspicuous ribbing, pointed tips and rich coppery hues when young. A 2002 Garden Merit Award recipient, this stylish evergreen climber affords an enticing floriferous display each spring and a handsome year-round presence when situated in a sheltered, well-drained sunny abode, such as a south-facing garden or house wall.

Blooms March–April

Size: 15' 0" – 25' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 7.

A 1900 introduction by famed plant hunter E. H. Wilson, this energetic award-winner is supposedly one of the most desired evergreen Clematis in cultivation. Large half-hardy deep green leaves—thick, waxy, pointed and copper-infused when young—sculpt a tasteful verdurous screen. Beguiling bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and plant enthusiasts alike, dense axillary clusters of urbane, pure white single flowers, each with 4 to 6 starry tepals, waft a delectable vanilla fragrance. Bright, fast draining niches, protection from cold winter winds, a trim immediately after blooming plus well-rotted compost applied as an early spring mulch ensure a mighty fine specimen.

Blooms March–April

Size: 15' 0" – 25' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 7.

A late flowering jackmanii descendant, this treasured 1874 introduction was raised by John Standish and named for Ascot, the English town where it originated. Well-formed, clear medium blue blooms include greenish chocolate-colored anthers plus 4 to 6 tepals that initially unfold with a glamorous, metallic deeper blue-mauve luster. Affording late season color, the large bountiful flowers populate most of the stem and stage a lovely presentation in a patio pot. Hearty, deciduous and reliable, ‘Ascotiensis’ can complement red or yellow roses, scale small trees and shrubs or grace a trellis.

Blooms July–September

Size: 8' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A heavenly combination of ethereal beauty and brawn, this lively midsized AGM recipient spirits a summertime galaxy of 3 to 4 in. wide, pale sky-blue flowers. The floral profusion premiers silky tepals with subtle lilac tinges, deep textural grooves, lighter central bars plus ruffled edges, all swirling around sunny-yellow stamens. Introduced by a Polish monk, Brother Stefan Franczak in 1990, ‘Blue Angel’s spiffy deciduous leafage and long-lasting pastel-hued blooms can sojourn beside a climbing rose or a late spring-blooming shrub such as Philadelphus ‘Belle Etoile’.

Blooms June–September

Size: 8' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Hats off to the University of British Columbia for selecting this sturdy long-blooming gem from a group of South Korean seedlings. Lustrous wine-colored stems and trim trifoliate deciduous foliage host masses of pastel yellow bells described by thick prominently ridged tepals, burgundy-flushed bases and slender pointed tips, which turn outward. Arising mostly from the previous season’s wood, its nodding fairy-like flowers usher in summer, while airy silver-laced fluffy seed heads extend the enchantment. 

Blooms May–June

Size: 6-1/2' – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

Also known as Clematis spooneri.

An avalanche of white blossoms smothers the deep green rounded foliage, like a heavy spring snowfall in the mountains. Amid 3-lobed deciduous leaflets that are downy on both sides and purple-tinged when young, broad, widely spaced tepals embellish each illuminated flower. This splendid climber bears some semblance to Clematis montana, though its vigorous form is more refined and somewhat less rambunctious, rendering it more suited to a terrace or smaller garden.

Blooms April – early June.

Size: 15' 0" – 20' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

(Vancouver ™)

So smitten with his new introduction, Fred Wein Sr. of Clearview Horticultural Nursery, a leading North American Clematis grower, named it after his darling granddaughter. Overlapping vibrant purple-blue tepals with carmine-tinged central bars and rich red-tipped stamens distinguish ‘Danielle’s large shapely blooms.

Superb as a cut flower and as a container focal point, due to its compact stature, this celebrated Clematis’ richly hued blossoms will festoon your garden in late spring and again in early autumn.

Blooms June & September

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

The dexterous hands of an Argentine doctor raised this fabulous free flowering Clematis. Boasting wavy edges and a sensuous satiny luster, each large single blossom is composed of 6 to 8 overlapping rose pink tepals, which encompass candent yellow-brown anthers. Dark fuchsia-colored central brush strokes and tapered points define the tepals. A medium-sized, moderately vigorous stature renders it well-suited for container culture or a garden arch.

Coveted by floral arrangers and hummingbirds alike, ‘Doctor Ruppel’ charms gardeners with repeat bloom periods, curly tailed spherical seed heads and a mettle tough enough to endure strong sunlight.

Blooms May – June & September.

Size: 8' 0" – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Let ‘Durandii’ twine its way through the branches of your favorite shrub. This semi-herbaceous Clematis is coveted by floral arrangers and gardeners alike for its choice 3-½ to 4 in. flowers and sturdy, nonclinging stems. With centers of creamy white stamens and deeply ribbed tepals, these richly colored indigo-blue flowers will bring an exquisite splash of color to your garden or an arrangement.

Blooms June–September.

Size: 3-1/2' – 5' 10" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Bred by Berlin-born Ludwig Späth in 1891, ‘Elsa Späth’ enjoys a longstanding popularity thanks to her 6 to 8 in. wide blooms, which reliably festoon both new and old growth for months on end. Conjuring a marvelous deep coloration and looking delectable in cut arrangements, 6 to 8 broad, overlapping rich blue-violet tepals with short points plus dark red anthers define the opulent rounded blossoms. This easy-care highly favored AGM recipient makes a superb compact container specimen or strong growing deciduous companion for shrubs and climbing roses.

Blooms June & September

Size: 8' 0" – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Bestowed a prestigious AGM in 1993, ‘Ernest Markham’s single, 4 to 6 in. wide, rounded blossoms create a long-lasting summertime riot that delights bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and plant connoisseurs alike. The vivacious flowers, each composed of six broad overlapping, wavy-edged tepals, are vitalized by fuchsia-red hues with a velvet sheen plus frilly latte-colored anthers. Sporting a he-man persona and blooms galore, this deciduous fellow is a blaze of glory as his compound bright green leaves ramble through Hydrangea ‘Rocklin’ or over an arched threshhold.

Blooms July–September

Size: 8' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

This compact easily managed vine headlines urbane perfectly fashioned star-style white flowers, boasting a 6 to 8 in. diameter, vivid maroon-tipped stamens, a delightful vanilla scent plus a repeat autumn bloom. Recently introduced by Canadian horticulturist Rob Wein, ‘Fragrant Star’ is the celebrated prodigy of a ‘Capitaine Thuilleaux’ and ‘Blue Ravine’ cross. Tinged green when grown in the shade and exceptional when paired with roses, the huge snowy colored flowers enhance a smaller statured deciduous foundation that’s ideal for containers, a trellis or a somewhat openly branched shrub such as a Viburnum.

Blooms May, June & September

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

“Girl under Wisteria Bloom” is a marvelous compact deciduous Japanese cultivar, whose namesake aptly alludes to its sizable, long-blooming Wisteria-esque blue-violet flowers. Large plump buds blanketed with short white hairs unfurl flattish and satiny smooth 6 to 7 in. blooms defined by tapered, slightly overlapping tepals, significant saffron-yellow stamens and later, ornamental pouffed golden seed heads. Introduced in 1952, this strong-growing AGM champion can be enthroned on a small obelisk, a threshold or in a patio pot, where the delightful blossoms will cool down the hottest summer afternoon.

Blooms May–June & mid-August–September

Size: 6' 0" – 9' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Zone 4/5.

Gold soaked frilly centers heighten the lavish and lengthy showing of large, well rounded mauve-blue flowers, which span some 6 in. across. Gracing lance-shaped deciduous leaflets, long narrow tapered buds herald the marvelous blooms, each described by 6 or 8 broadly overlapping tepals with subtly notched margins and red-tinged bases.

An award winning, compact Polish cultivar whose blossoms and fluffy seed clusters make first-class additions to cut arrangements, the robust ‘General Sikorski’ can be trained up an obelisk or pergola alongside climbing roses, or sited in a container as a colorful summertime specimen.

Blooms June – September.

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Selected by Clematis connoisseur Jim Fisk in 1975, this deciduous AGM recipient bears a compact medium-sized profile of winsome glistening greenery. Gorgeous, 6 to 8 in. wide star-like white flowers make a chock-full summer-long appearance with 6 to 8 pointed tepals sporting ruched softly hued bluish mauve margins and perky champagne-colored anthers. A beacon for bees, butterflies and floral artists, ‘Gillian Blades’s large luminous blooms plus spherical pewter-laced seed heads can straddle shrubbery, tootle up pillars or enhance patio containers.

Blooms May–June & September

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A classy 1877 introduction by the former British nursery Cripps & Sons, ‘Gipsy Queen’ puts on a regal air with plush dark purple flowers borne on strong stems. The gorgeous abundant blooms are composed of burgundy-colored anthers plus 4 to 6 broad blunt-tipped tepals, which are narrow at the base, lending an open aspect amongst deciduous pinnate leaves. This peppy medium-sized AGM winner reigns supreme, either positioned near silver or gold-leafed shrubs or scrambling upon an arbor or column.

Blooms mid-June–September

Size: 10' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Raised by Frenchman Francisque Morel, this compact, color-rich Clematis claims an intriguing heritage that spans more than a century and includes 2 continents. A probable descendant of Clematis viticella and Jackmanii strains plus Clematis texensis, ‘Gravetye Beauty’ was given to William Robinson in 1914, who named it after his British manor home. Myriad, upward-facing tulip-style flowers, bathed in breathtaking ruby-red shades, feature vivid crimson interiors, subtle pink stripes and reddish brown anthers. The tapered, recurving tepals open widely as they age, resembling signature 4-to 6-pointed stars, while firm herbaceous stems forge a shrubby deciduous base, garbed with attractive dark greenery. Low walls, pint-sized hedges, small trellises and training its stems horizontally promote easy viewing.

Blooms July–September

Size: 8' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Witness the legions of posh 5 in. wide creamy-white blooms with butter-colored anthers and you’ll see how the namesake came to be. Illuminating a compact deciduous habit, each shapely rounded flower hosts 8 overlapping sepals that are enhanced with pale greenish yellow central bars when they first unfurl. ‘Guernsey Cream’ can nestle alongside early blooming roses or reside in front of medium-sized dark-leafed shrubs to better show off its stunning blossoms plus gleaming silver seed heads.

Blooms May–June & September

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Legions of big, beautiful, blue single flowers highlighted by contrasting cream-colored stamens dress this hardy, RHS award winning Clematis. Between 6 to 8 round-edged tepals extend over one another, emphasizing pointed tips and mauvish blue flipsides, each with a subtle greenish white central zone.

Not as rambunctious as many cultivars, ‘H. F. Young’ sprouts paired, widely spaced deciduous leaves that can drape a pergola, large trellis or an obelisk in a mixed border.

Blooms May – June & September.

Size: 7' 0" – 9' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Cultivated by Japanese Esio Kubota and introduced by British Clematis connoisseur Jim Fisk, this free-flowering Clematis is dubbed ‘White Royal Crown’ for its marvelous cluster of large alabaster-colored stamens. Pointed, overlapping saturated violet-blue sepals with veined pale purple central bars describe the cut-flower-perfect 6 in. wide blooms that occasionally present as semidoubles, but always promise a repeat autumn showing. Fanciful spherical seed heads plus a smaller stature give you more reasons to ensconce ‘Haku Ookan’ near your favorite garden bench.

Blooms May–June & September

Size: 6' 0" – 9' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

This classy 1855 heirloom climber is one of the oldest white-flowering Clematis and over 160 years later, is still one of the most adored. The generous showing of 6 to 8 in. wide, rounded creamy-white flowers exhibits striking purplish chocolate-colored anthers as well as 6 to 8 smooth overlapping pointy tepals with pale green central bars and a satin-like finish. Tailor-made for arbors, obelisks or nuzzling alongside espaliered shrubs, ‘Henryi’ is an energetic AGM winner whose deep green deciduous stance delivers a second late summer bloom that can be enjoyed in cut arrangements.

Blooms June & August–September

Size: 10' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Prized for its sweetly scented, Hyacinth-like flowers, this pretty semiherbaceous perennial was collected by Pére David near Beijing in 1863. Luminous tight-knit clusters of powdery blue-lavender flowers with curled-back petals are borne at both the leaf axils and stem tips. Medium green and good-sized, the serrated foliage and strong stems form an arresting textural mass that emits a pleasant woodsy aroma when autumn arrives.

Spreading by underground rhizomes, Clematis var. davidiana is certain to spark attention as it rambles around Deutzia setchuenensis var. corymbiflora in a mixed grouping.

Blooms late July–September.

Size: 3' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A captivating 1962 introduction, this free-flowering Dutch beauty begets enormous 7 to 9 in. wide, vivid rosy-purple blooms. Adorned with veined darker-hued central bars plus crinkled, slightly notched margins, the 6 to 8 overlapping blunt-tipped tepals gather around saucy red anthers. Granted a well-earned AGM, ‘Horn of Plenty’ grows as a tailored close-knit deciduous vine that’s ideal for scampering up an obelisk, trellis or post, while its long-lasting cup-shaped flowers and shapely seed heads lend glorious accents either outside or in a bouquet.

Blooms May–June & September

Size: 6-1/2' – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Bred nearly 100 years ago in France, ‘Huldine’ faithfully delivers copious pearly white, cup-shaped blooms all summer long. Amid plump pointed buds, dark stems and handsome, strong growing deciduous greenery, the perfect-for-cutting, 3 to 4 in. luminous flowers are held upright, while uniting 6 translucent nonoverlapping tepals around a cluster of greenish yellow anthers. This sophisticated hardy Clematis features recurving tips and slightly incurved, mauve-blushed margins. It is best grown over a large trellis, arch or pergola—anywhere the lovely undersides, which glow with 3 pinkish mauve central bars per tepal, are easily relished.

Blooms July – October.

Size: 10' 0" – 15' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Developed in 1947 by Canada’s impressive hybridizer Dr. Frank Skinner, this select seedling originated from a C. integrifolia and C. viticella cross. A pleasing fan-like symmetry is achieved as sturdy nonclinging stalks, needing only minimal support, produce paired wiry stems that jut out at pronounced angles with 4 in. wide steel-blue bells at their tips. Several hundred gracefully flaring flowers appear nonstop for a stunning nearly 3 month long display, while a moderate trimming produces yet another round of blooms. ‘Blue Boy’s sleek, compact habit can be threaded into a rose, grown alongside C. x durandii or premiered in a pot.

Blooms June–September

Size: 4' 0" – 6' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Named as a tribute to acclaimed Dutch Clematis doyenne Jan Fopma, this wondrous, new scrambler exhibits the best attributes of both its parents, Clematis integrifolia and Clematis fusca, thanks to fellow Dutch plant breeder, Wim Snoeijer. Slender, semiherbaceous stems and natty, pointed, deciduous green leaves give way to a long-lasting chocolate-scented flood of open, thick-walled, rosy purple bells with dainty flared tips, darker purple interiors and light pink margins. A fanciful spectacle for bees, butterflies and all who behold it, small-statured ‘Jan Fopma’ parades delicate, silken seed heads for late season appeal, tumbles over container rims, laces through shrubs or clambers upon obelisks.

Blooms July–September

Size: 5' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Zone 5b.

Embroidered by decorative clusters of burgundy-tipped white anthers, giant 5 in. wide blossoms are a florist’s dream and a gardener’s boon. Prolific bicolored blooms manifest ever-changing hues as they mature and fool you into thinking two different Clematis are intertwined. Newly unfurling pink tepals showcase bold stripes in plush ruby red shades that develop orchid-tinted borders plus brilliant fuchsia hues. Eventually they mellow to a pronounced pink, while the background adopts a warm lavender cast. Headlining a unique summer-long floral display, handsome deciduous leafage and a relatively small stature, this phenomenal Clematis is tailor-made for a container or an exalted patio position.

Blooms June – September.

Size: 8' 0" – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A pollinator’s delight and friend to gardeners short on space, this alluring deciduous climber proffers subtly scented plum-burgundy bells composed of 4 pointed tepals dressed with pronounced ridges, a satin-like finish and pastel green staminoides. The nodding dusky-hued flowers transform into fluffy decorative seed heads amidst handsome dentate green leaflets. Well suited for container culture, hardy ‘Brunette’ can scamper up a medium-sized trellis or obelisk, where it cherishes a warm well-drained niche, but detests wet feet.

Blooms April–June & September

Size: 6' 0" – 9' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Once you invite this voluptuous show-stopper into your garden, it’s easy to see why ‘Lord Neville’ has remained popular for over 100 years. Adorned with dramatic white filaments and red anthers, the textural deep blue blossoms span 6 to 8 in. across, featuring 6 or 8 large heavily veined, ruffle-edged tepals that overlap at their bases and taper to fine sophisticated points. Followed by small open spherical seed heads amid attractive green deciduous foliage, lavish long-blooming flowers make fantastic additions to arrangements. This moderately vigorous Clematis looks best against a light backdrop, where he can ascend trellises, obelisks and pergolas or be grown next to wall-trained shrubs.

Blooms May, June & September

Size: 8' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

We especially like this lusty deciduous cultivar for its smoky-silver seed heads. But nodding violet-blue flowers with inner petals of cream also combine with young red stems and coarsely toothed medium green leaves to make this species a colorful favorite.

Blooms June–September

Size: 15' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Touted as the darkest of all the blue-flowering macropetala cultivars and perhaps later to open than many of them, this beguiling AGM winner was introduced by George Jackman in 1959. Serrated, deeply lobed green leaves make an attractive deciduous foil for droves of large, 2 ½ in. semidouble nodding blooms with slim, spiky midnight-blue tepals, lucent cream-colored centers and a lovely, open lantern-like aspect. Sprouting silken smoky-hued seed heads that keep our interest piqued, ‘Blue Lagoon’s strong-growing slender habit blooms equally profuse in sun or shade, endures extreme winter conditions and tantalizes both garden visitors and floral designers plus bees and butterflies.

Blooms April–May

Size: 6' 0" – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Raised by the namesake, an acclaimed Clematis enthusiast, this wondrous small statured climber originated as a Clematis macropetala ‘Bluebird’ seedling in the early 1980s. One of the first macropetala hybrids to bloom, ‘Jan Lindmark’ fashions spidery-looking double pinkish purple flowers with 4 outer dark-streaked tepals plus an inner skirt defined by long, twisted petal-like staminodes donning paler mulberry hues. The nodding white-centered blossoms beguile bees, butterflies and floral designers amid tasteful deciduous greenery. Ideal for intimate courtyards, terracotta vessels or against a golden-leafed shrub, its compact, impressively cold-tolerant habit cushions a late season display of pouffed pewter-hued seed heads.

Blooms April–May

Size: 7' 0" – 9' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Deemed by many to be one of the best montana species available, this hardy AGM stunner lauds admirable deciduous pep as well as elegant cascades of Anemone-like pure white blossoms. The early-flowering 4-tepaled blooms are garnished with prominent primrose-yellow stamens plus a sweet perfume. Clothed in attractive, serrated and trifoliate dark greenery, the rambunctious sky-bound stems can readily cover old tree stumps, garden sheds and somewhat substantial pergolas, or hide an unsightly fence. Judicious pruning after the flowers fade helps maintain a fresh appearance and a manageable size.

Blooms May–June

Size: 25' 0" – 35' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Zone 5b/6.

Claiming the British Clematis Society’s 1998 Certificate of Merit Award, this peerless “star” was named after a local parish by the English couple who bred it. Each 2 ½ in. semidouble flower is the color of crushed strawberries and features a distinctive inner ring of tepals, luxuriously staged against bronzy-green deciduous foliage. For a far-reaching display of enticing blooms aplenty, let ‘Broughton Star’s plucky stems weave their way amid the Dove Tree’s heart-shaped leaves.

Blooms May–June

Size: 15' 0" – 20' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Zone 5/6.

This deliciously vanilla-scented cultivar boasts masses of tenderly pink, 2-¼ in. blooms, each with a satiny sheen, rounded tepals and a spiky yellow center. Young deciduous stems are tinged burgundy, and new purple-tinted trifoliate leaves age to a handsome green bronze as the flowers melt away.

Blooms May – June.

Size: 25' 0" – 30' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

A deliciously vanilla-scented cultivar—very floriferous—whose rounded tepals, once opened, form an almost cup shaped, tenderly pink bloom centered with yellow anthers. Young stems are tinged burgundey, and purple-tinted new leaves age to a handsome green bronze as the flowers melt away.

Blooms May–June

Size: 25' 0" high x 30' 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

(Vancouver™)

Ample, soft pink and ruffled edged, the 7 to 9 in. flowers of this new Clearview Nursery introduction achieve a decidedly feminine visage. Central hubs defined by white filaments with yellow anthers, slightly darker pink midribs and hot pink edges augment an elegant presentation that spans 3 seasons.

Originating from a cross between ‘Souvenir du Capitaine Thuilleaux’ and ‘Kathleen Wheeler’, ‘Morning Mist’ fashions attractive green deciduous foliage, grows vigorously into a well-branched, small-sized vine, and looks stylish in a glossy black vessel.

Blooms May – June & September.

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A lovely North American hybrid between Clematis virginiana and Clematis tubulosa raised by Robert Brydon and named for his missus, this herbaceous nonclinging Clematis sprawls from a vigorous free flowering woody base, creating delicate sprays of milky blue Hyacinth-like blooms at leaf axils plus a good patch of divided deciduous foliage. Prominent cream-colored stamens and 4 widely spaced recurving tepals define the faintly fragrant flowers that later develop fluffy silver seed heads. Grateful for moist free draining soil, 'Mrs. Robert Brydon' can enhance cut arrangements, cover an old tree stump or low wall and forge an unifying textural ground cover.

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Zone 4/5.

For its hardy, manageable habit and its quantities of large, glamorous long blooming flowers upon tapered green leaves, this acclaimed deciduous Clematis earned the coveted RHS award in 1993 and world-wide notoriety. Single, flat-faced and centered with sprightly yellow stamens, each nearly 6 in. wide bloom hosts 6 to 8 rich as velvet, ruby red tepals, which are broad at the base, narrow toward the tip and age to a fine red-wine color. Bred by Poland’s Wladyslaw Noll, ‘Niobe’s compact form can cozy up to climbing roses or be featured as a regal specimen in a mixed bed or a container.

Blooms June – September.

Size: 6' 0" – 7-3/4' high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Open, gently nodding porcelain-colored blooms are composed of greenish yellow anthers encompassed by 4 recurving pointed sepals with interior rosy-mauve margins plus delicate pink veining. Lounging upon compact deciduous greenery, the elegant Pagoda-style sepals flaunt a swank deep purplish pink central bar on each flip side and become more curly and twisted as they age. A Clematis viticella and Clematis texensis ‘Etoile Rose’ descendant that originated at Britain’s Treasures Nursery, ‘Pagoda’s tidy midsized habit and award-winning summer-long floral display can be admired in a patio container or on a short earthen column.

Blooms July–September

Size: 6' 0" – 9' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

With a name that translates “memory of the heart,” this vine’s floral elegance is hard to forget. Long blooming and satin sheened, the rich colored heliotrope purple blooms show off darker, glossier midribs. Caught in a partially open, spirited flounce that surrounds pale yellow anthers, the 3 in. long tepals are sometimes twisted and irregularly edged. ‘Pamiat Serdtsa’s sturdy herbaceous shoots will climb and saunter but not cling, while slightly nodding blooms pose suspended from subtly crooked stems.

Developed at the Ukraine’s Nikita Botanic Garden, she etches an exquisite juxtaposition of color when meandering up through Spiraea ‘Ogon’ in the mixed border.

Blooms July–September.

Size: 4' 0" – 6' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Gracing gardens with its classic sky-blue presence for over 100 years, freely-flowering ‘Perle d’Azur’ presents 4 in. wide seminodding blooms centered by light green stamens and a tinge of pinkish mauve. The nearly translucent tepals have deeply grooved midribs and recurving edges, which make each exquisite flower appear more rounded. This robust deciduous Clematis puts on a lofty show as it meanders through the gold-hued foliage of Physocarpus ‘Dart’s Gold’.

Blooms June–September

Size: 10' 0" – 15' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Celebrated for its early profusion of large prismatic flowers, this tight-set medium-sized vine was raised by Kazushige Ozawa in 1971. The bicolored purplish pink blooms present fringe-like bright yellow stamens that clutch 6 to 8 overlapping, vibrantly hued pointed tepals with pink-veined, softer-hued rosy-mauve central bars. Entertaining dapper deciduous greenery, a generous late summer bloom and stylish silver-tinted seed heads, ‘Pink Champagne’s somewhat diminutive carriage can be squeezed into narrow nooks and gardens short on space, or staged upon a small post.

Blooms May–June & September

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

This remarkable Clematis vitalba and Clematis jouiniana progeny spawns a robust, weed-suppressing carpet of thick, sprawling, nonvining stems and large, serrated dark trifoliate greenery. Earning an Award of Garden Merit plus high ratings from the Chicago Botanical Garden’s Clematis trials, its hardy herbaceous bearing is garnished with marvelous, Hyacinth-like white crowns of mostly 4-tepaled pale mauve flowers that don ridged margins, rose-stained recurving tips and fringe-like centers. Touted as the best ground cover-style Clematis, easy-care ‘Praecox’ is an appealing deciduous candidate for hiding unsightly features, sauntering over rocks, skirting beneath a tree or blanketing a bed.

Blooms July–mid-October

Size: 2' 0" – 6' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

The firm, well-formed 3 to 5 in. wide flowers assume a velvety sheen, which imparts the darkest, most lavish purple-black shades imaginable when it’s overcast, and mysteriously morphs to dark violet when the sun comes out. Introduced in 1983 by Uno Kivistik, this deciduous vine’s dramatic blossoms are composed of 4 to 6 tepals, each with a heavily grooved central band, and pronounced, frilly light yellow stamens, creating a stunning contrast. ‘Romantika’s floral profusion can be showcased in a large container, splashed upon an obelisk or trellis, planted next to roses or situated by silver or golden foliage for heightened appeal. 

Blooms mid-June–September

Size: 6' 0" – 9' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Zone 3/4.

Dangling from the curved ends of lax stems, dark plum-colored droves of dainty ribbed bells, edged in light lavender, present a continual summer fling. The 3 in. long blooms emphasize prominent curled up tepal tips that add fairy tale charm. Hybridized by Kazushige Ozawa, this endearing Clematis grows as an herbaceous perennial, its nonclinging stems can enhance a container, form a ground cover or wind their way through an airy shrub.

Blooms June–mid-October

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Blooms June–September

Size: 3' 0" – 6' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Large freely borne, summer-long blooms boasting extravagant dark reddish magenta hues earned this hardy Clematis an AGM and a hummingbird entourage. Inscribed by spry canary-colored anthers and six to eight subtly textured tepals, each with a pointed tip plus a bold lustrous cerise central bar, the starry single flowers loll amid attractive compound deciduous greenery. ‘Sunset’s compact midsized foundation spangles the ravishing splendor of a setting sun in your garden, whether it’s skedaddling up a smaller trellis or scrambling upon a medium-statured shrub such as Heptacodium miconioides.

Blooms June–September

Size: 6' 0" – 9' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A new variety from Holland, this robust deciduous climber is adorned with exceptional seed heads, which look like loose silky balls of shiny silver thread. The four-tepaled, nodding golden yellow flowers will cascade over stone walls or be carried on mischievous stems to adjacent shrubs. It is especially enchanting entwined among Melianthus major.

Blooms July–September.

Size: 15' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

This spectacular New Zealand native is covered with small white flowers borne on long, arching panicles. The pink anthers, silky seed heads, and dark glossy leaves combine with the Hawthorn-like fragrance of the flowers to create a sensuous, alluring effect. We trained our Sweet Autumn Clematis to grow horizontally against a wall, so that the evergreen foliage contrasts with the hanging flower panicles.

Blooms August – October

Size: 25' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

Raised by a Mr. Charles Noble in 1876, this RHS award winner is a widely popular early flowering Clematis. The large plush purple-blue blossoms are somewhat cupped and well-endowed with 6 to 8 wavy margined overlapping tepals. Lounging amongst dark green deciduous foliage that is bronze-toned when young, the 7 in. wide repeat blooming flowers offer additional enticements: pointed tips, silvery undersides, pronounced dark red anthers and open spiky seed heads. Whether scaling a column or pergola, or clambering upon silver or golden foliaged plants for heightened contrast, ‘The President’s color-rich compact habit earns our vote.

Blooms mid-May–September

Size: 8' 0" – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Believed to be a natural deciduous hybrid between Clematis flammula and Clematis viticella, the ruby-margined flush of this floriferous 1860s cross is made more delectable by its rich, marzipanlike fragrance. Arranged in terminal panicles, starry white, four-tepaled, 1-½ in. blooms are drawn together by creamy anthers. Assuring billows of bloom, vigorous ‘Rubromarginata’ imparts a celestial charm amid the golden foliage of Physocarpus ‘Dart’s Gold’ or a dark green Yew.

Blooms July–early October.

Size: 10' 0" – 13' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A resplendent English cultivar raised by Cripps & Sons in 1867, this popular vintage Clematis has a lot to offer: well-formed richly hued 5 ½ in. blooms, excellent cold hardiness and vigor aplenty. The deep rosy mauve flowers are composed of 4 to 6 broad overlapping tepals with pointed tips, slightly notched margins plus deeply grooved pinkish purple midribs that eventually lighten to mauve. Sporting bright greenish yellow anthers, �Victoria�s plush bountiful blooms need a light background for best effect, while its handsome visage lends itself to scaling pergolas and arbors, rambling through shrubs or accompanying roses and other Clematis.

Blooms July–September

Size: 9' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

The unusual open blossoms of this vigorous Clematis bob like pale butterflies drifting on the breath of a lazy wind. Luminous against the slightly glaucous foliage, the recurved tips of each 3 in. white flower are brushed with green, while its prominent eye of dark purple anthers is tipped with black. Plant with roses and let them intertwine up and over a pergola, or contrast it with the purple foliage of Sambucus ‘Black Beauty’.

Blooms July – September.

Size: 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Bred by an 85 year old Polish monk in 1967 and named after a young Polish freedom fighter from the early 1800s, this vigorous cultivar exhibits grace and unwavering tenacity. Her splendid summertime flowers, painted in stunning bluish lavender hues, are considered large for a viticella, measuring 4 to 6 inches across given favorable growing conditions.

Widely spaced tepals surround creamy green anthers and are distinguished by undulating edges, recurving tips, shaded central bars and darker veins. Acquiescent to most garden soils, even drier ones, 'Emilia Plater' can ramble up a pole in the midst of the border backed by Buddleja knappii's silver and green leaves.

Blooms July-September

Size: 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Long-lasting volumes of regal, dark inky purple blooms envelop this energetic, French-bred AGM recipient from midsummer through early fall. A classic care-free garden mainstay since 1885, ‘Etoile Violette’s neat pinnately trifoliate green leaves are nearly obscured by the single, 2 to 3 in. seminodding flowers that feature spritely cream-colored stamens clutching four to six broad well-spaced tepals, each with blunt tips plus a satin gleam. Spotlight the robust deciduous habit on pillars, hightailing up trees, scampering upon shrubs and intermingling with yellow-flowering Rosa ‘Crepuscule’.

Blooms June–September

Size: 9' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Plush crimson hues imbue the blooms of this robust and free flowering deciduous cultivar raised in the 1880s by the well-known French nursery, Lemoine. Green-tipped upon opening, four rubescent tepals exhibit illuminated white bases and margins that curl under, while their vivid dance encompasses a central hub of black anthers. The luxurious, downward glancing blossoms create an alluring vignette against a pearly colored backdrop.

Blooms June–September.

Size: 10' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

An outstanding cultivar introduced by a Polish priest, this sumptuously colored Clematis has long, slender buds and a satiny, wavy-edged bloom of saturated purple. Each tepal is marked with a subtle deep fuchsia central stripe and accented by wine-colored anthers and chartreuse styles. Dense, deciduous foliage holds its vibrant good looks all the way to the ground. Lovely from below, let it scramble up and over an archway.

Blooms July – September.

Size: 10' 0" – 13' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Distinguished by a velvety texture and satin-like sheen, ‘Royal Velours’s intense deep wine-purple flowers are considered the ‘darkest of the dark’. Legions of opulent semi-nodding flowers feature 4 to 6 overlapping tepals embellished with deeply grooved lighter midribs and greenish black anthers. A stunning 1914 French selection, this hardy deciduous AGM winner can be superimposed against golden foliage or a silvery backdrop like Teucrium fruticans (Select Form), guaranteeing a magnificent summer time spectacle.

Blooms June–September

Size: 9' 0" – 12' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Zone 3/4.

Introduced by the famed French nursery, Lemoine in 1884 this magnificent two-toned AGM winner, though listed as a viticella, begets the largest most distinctive flowers of the species. Overlapping slightly at each base, 6 boat-shaped tepals encompass black-tipped stamens and sport white central swathes with feathery pinkish purple veins that intensify to forge a solid violet border plus a vivid star-like pattern. Long lasting as a cut flower, the gorgeous 4 to 6 in. wide blooms blanket attractive fresh green foliage for most of the summer. Robust, yet moderately sized, ‘Venosa Violacea’ can grow alongside climbing roses or over golden heathers, up lampposts and trellises, through large shrubs or against silver-laced foliage.

Blooms June–September

Size: 8' 0" – 10' 0" high x 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 4.