Clematis is one of the most stunning plants you can add to your garden. With its wide range of colors and shapes, it’s no wonder this climbing plant is often called the “queen of vines.” Clematis has been loved for generations, especially in Europe, where gardeners have used it to cover walls, trellises, and fences, creating beautiful floral displays.
Growing clematis is easier than you might think, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be rewarded with vibrant blooms year after year!
Popular Clematis Varieties:
- Jackmanii (Deep purple flowers)
- Nelly Moser (Pale pink with dark stripes)
- Sweet Autumn Clematis (Tiny white flowers)
Care
- Water: Clematis likes to be consistently moist, but not soaking wet. Water it regularly, especially when it’s young, but make sure not to overdo it. Good drainage is key to keeping those roots healthy.
- Light: Most clematis varieties love sunshine! Aim to plant it where it can get at least six hours of sun each day. But here’s a little twist: clematis likes cool roots, so while the top of the plant basks in the sun, keep the base shaded with mulch or a small plant. The morning sun is the best for them.
- Soil: Clematis thrives in rich, well-draining soil. A mix of compost and garden soil works great. You want the soil to hold moisture without getting too soggy.
- Temperature: Clematis is pretty hardy and can handle a range of temperatures, but it does best in moderate climates. It can tolerate light frost (evergreen types not so much) or intense heat, but extreme conditions require some protection, like mulching the roots.
Planting & Growing
Clematis is a climber, so it needs something to hold onto as it grows—think trellises, fences, or even trees! You can plant clematis in spring or fall, and it can be grown from either seeds or small plants. When planting, dig a hole deep enough so that about two inches of the stem is buried underground. Space them about 3-5 feet apart, depending on the variety.
Most clematis take about two to three years to reach full maturity, but once it’s established, it will be a showstopper in your garden for years to come!
Pruning
Pruning clematis depends on when it flowers: early bloomers need light pruning after they finish blooming, large-flowered types benefit from trimming after the first bloom to encourage new growth, and late bloomers should be cut back to about 25-30cm in early March.
For more tips, check out our full guide on Pruning Clematis.
Common Pests
- Aphids
- Slugs
- Clematis wilt (a fungal disease)
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make clematis happy?
Plant clematis in well-drained soil to avoid soggy conditions, especially in fall and winter. While it loves full sun, keep the roots cool with mulch or nearby plants for best results.
Do you cut back clematis every year?
Prune late-flowering clematis every February by cutting back to the lowest pair of buds.
How many years do clematis live?
Clematis can live up to 50 years if grown in well-drained soil with proper moisture and care.
Do clematis multiply?
Clematis can be multiplied by layering low stems or grown from seeds, though seed-grown hybrids may differ from the parent plant.