Tender Clematis for the Prairies

Highly esteemed for its dazzling flowers, Clematis is the most popular of all the climbers!  The Clematis produces masses of flowers  in many different shapes, sizes and colors.   The flowers are followed by attractive seed heads which may remain on the plant well into the winter.  Clematis requires a support structure such as a trellis or fence and if left to grow, some of the species may grow up to 9m (30').  Ground cover or perennial shading is necessary in order to keep the roots cool and moist.

Tender Varieties survive best with full sun and long growing days.  It is important, however, that the roots are protected from the hot sun by mulching.  Often the top growth of the tender varieties will freeze in late fall and new growth will come the following spring from the buried dormant buds.  The tender clematis requires well-drained soil, plenty of water and regular feeds of fertilizer.

Cultivar Name	Zone	Flowers	Description
Etoile Violette Clematis		4-5 inch flowers in a deep purple color.	The Etoile Violette Clematis is a  vigorous,  free flowering vine.
Hagley Hybrid Clematis	3	Large shell pink flowers that are 4-7" in size.	Fast growing vine that blooms on new wood.  It blooms profusely  from June to September growing to a height of 3m (10'). Excellent for cascading over walls and fences.  Partial sun to shade.
Huldine Clematis		Pearly white	Huldine Clematis is a vigorous grower.
Jackmanii Clematis	3	Vibrant deep purple flowers that are occasionally double.  4-6 inch in size.	The Jackmanii is the best known variety.  This popular fast growing vine  flowers from June to September on new wood.   It may climb to a height of 3m (10'). Prune close to ground level in spring  Partial sun to shade.
Nelly Moser Clematis	3	4 inch blooms that are pastel mauve - pink with deep pink bars.	This popular clematis is an old favorite that flowers throughout the  summer on old wood.  It may grow to a height of  3m (10').  Plant in partial sun to shade.
Niobe Clematis		Very deep, almost black ruby - red flowers.	4-5 inch blooms
Ramona Clematis		Lavender blue flowers.	5-7 inch blooms
Ville de Lyon Clematis	3	Vivid, crimson- red blooms accented with a light red centre	Beautiful vine with flowers blooming on new wood, starting in July through until September.  Grows to a height of 3m (10')l.  Prune close to ground level in spring. Prefers partial sun to shade.

Compiled by Rachel Giesbrecht on November 26, 2004