40 Popular Types Of Clematis Pictorial Guide

Clematis is a popular flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family, which also includes buttercups and anemones. This beautiful plant is widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes for its showy flowers and ornamental value. With over 300 species and numerous cultivars, Clematis offers an incredible range of colors, shapes, and sizes to choose from.

Description And Characteristics

Clematis can be either deciduous or evergreen, with some species growing as vines and others as shrubs. The vines can climb and cling to walls, trellises, and other structures with the help of their twining leaf stems, or petioles. The leaves are usually green and pinnately compound, meaning they consist of several leaflets arranged in a feather-like pattern.

The flowers are the main attraction of the plant and are generally large, showy, and come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, purple, blue, and bicolors. They bloom in late spring to early fall, depending on the species, and can be single, semi-double, or double.

Cultivation And Care

Clematis plants prefer a sunny location with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can be grown from seeds, but it’s easier to propagate them from cuttings or by layering. It’s essential to plant clematis deep enough to ensure that the base of the stem is buried, which helps prevent stem rot and encourages the growth of new shoots from the base. Mulching the soil around the plant with organic matter helps to retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and improve soil quality. Clematis vines are heavy feeders, so regular fertilization is necessary, especially during the growing season. Watering should be done regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.

Pruning

Pruning clematis is crucial to ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering. The timing and method of pruning depend on the species and cultivar, but generally, clematis plants are classified into three groups based on their blooming time and growth habit. Group 1 plants bloom on old wood in spring and require minimal pruning, except for removing dead or damaged wood.

Group 2 plants bloom on old wood in the spring and again on new wood in the summer and require moderate pruning, such as removing weak or dead stems and cutting back the remaining stems to a healthy pair of buds. Group 3 plants bloom only on new wood in summer and require heavy pruning in late winter or early spring to stimulate new growth and remove old or damaged wood.

Uses

Clematis plants are versatile and can be used in various ways to enhance the landscape. They can be grown on trellises, fences, arbors, or pergolas to create a stunning vertical garden feature. They can also be grown as ground covers, shrubs, or container plants. Clematis is a popular cut flower and is widely used in floral arrangements, especially for weddings and special events. It’s also a popular gift plant, and its long blooming season makes it an excellent addition to any garden.

Clematis is a beautiful and versatile plant that can add color and interest to any garden. With its vast array of colors and shapes, it’s no wonder that it’s a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers alike. With proper care and pruning, clematis can thrive and produce an abundance of stunning flowers for many years to come.

Here are 40 Popular Types Of Clematis Pictorial Guide:

Clematis Alpina

Clematis Alpina is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. It is a deciduous climber that typically grows up to 3–4 meters in height and produces striking blue, pink, or purple flowers in early spring. This plant is native to mountainous regions of Europe and Asia and is commonly used in garden landscapes due to its beautiful blooms and hardiness.

Clematis Armandii

Clematis Armandii is a vigorous evergreen vine that produces masses of fragrant, creamy-white flowers in early spring. Native to China, it is prized for its glossy foliage and fast growth rate, making it an excellent choice for covering walls, trellises, and fences. It prefers a sunny or partially shaded location with well-draining soil and can reach heights of up to 20 feet (6 meters) with proper support.

Clematis Recta

Clematis Recta is a herbaceous perennial plant species that belongs to the buttercup family. It is native to Europe and Asia and has white, star-shaped flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant grows up to 1-2 meters tall and has a bushy, upright habit with narrow, compound leaves. It likes well-drained soil and full sunlight to partial shade. Clematis Recta is commonly used in garden borders and cottage gardens for its attractive foliage and showy blooms.

Clematis Tangutica

Clematis Tangutica is a species of flowering plant native to China, Mongolia, and Tibet. It is a deciduous climber that can reach up to 4 meters in height, with yellow lantern-shaped flowers that bloom in summer and autumn. Its seeds are feathery and can be carried over long distances by the wind. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and can be trained to climb walls, trellises, and fences.

Clematis Viticella

Clematis viticella is a species of flowering vine native to Europe and grown as an ornamental plant in gardens worldwide. It produces large, showy flowers with a range of colors from deep purple to pink and red. It blooms from mid-summer to early fall and prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Clematis Viticella is a hardy plant that can survive winter temperatures and is often used to cover walls, trellises, and fences.

Clematis Terniflora

Clematis Terniflora is a fast-growing perennial vine species in the buttercup family. It is native to Japan, Korea, and China and has naturalized in parts of North America. The plant produces fragrant, white flowers in late summer and early fall, which attract bees and butterflies. Its rapid growth and ability to cover large areas make it a popular choice for landscaping and garden trellises. However, it can also become invasive in some regions and should be carefully managed.

Clematis Montana

Clematis Montana is a species of flowering vine that belongs to the buttercup family. It is a vigorous grower, reaching heights of up to 20 feet, and produces an abundance of small, fragrant, white or pink flowers in the spring. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil and is a popular choice for trellises, walls, and arbors. It is native to the Himalayas and is also known as Himalayan Clematis.

Clematis Macropetala

Clematis Macropetala is a deciduous flowering vine that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to China and has distinctive blue or lavender-colored flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. The flowers are bell-shaped and have four petals with contrasting yellow stamens. This plant prefers well-draining soil and can grow up to 15 feet in length, making it an ideal plant for trellises, fences, and walls. Clematis Macropetala is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color and texture to their landscape.

Clematis Reticulata

Clematis Reticulata is a flowering vine in the Ranunculaceae family of buttercups. It is native to China and is known for its unique, bell-shaped flowers with distinct reticulated petals that resemble a net. The plant typically grows up to 6 meters in height and is often used in ornamental gardening for its showy flowers and attractive foliage.

Clematis Heracleifolia

Clematis Heracleifolia is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. It is native to Mexico and Central America and is characterized by its fragrant, blue-violet flowers that bloom in the late summer and fall. The plant typically grows up to 3–4 feet tall and has deeply cut leaves that resemble those of the common weed, cow parsley. Clematis Heracleifolia is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its beautiful flowers and ease of cultivation.

Clematis Cirrhosa

Clematis Cirrhosa is a species of evergreen climber plant that belongs to the buttercup family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has delicate, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in the winter and early spring. The flowers vary in color from cream to pale green and have attractive, dark red spots on the inside. Clematis Cirrhosa is commonly grown in gardens and can be trained to climb walls, fences, or trellises.

Clematis Patens

Clematis Patens, commonly known as the Blue Clematis or Large-Flowered Clematis, is a deciduous climbing plant that produces stunning blue flowers with 4 to 6 sepals that measure up to 6 inches across. It is a popular garden plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall and prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun exposure.

Clematis Ochroleuca

Clematis Ochroleuca is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the plant family Ranunculaceae. It is a deciduous vine that typically grows up to 6 feet in height and produces small, creamy-white flowers with a pleasant fragrance. Native to North America, it is commonly found in prairies and woodland edges.

Clematis Flammula

Clematis Flammula is a species of flowering vine native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. It has delicate, white flowers with a sweet, vanilla-like fragrance that bloom in late summer and early fall. The plant is commonly used as an ornamental in gardens and landscapes, and its seeds are an important food source for birds. Clematis Flammula prefers well-drained soils and full to partial sunlight.

Clematis Integrifolia

Clematis Integrifolia is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Europe and produces delicate blue-violet flowers with four petals that bloom in the summer. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is often used in garden borders and as a ground cover.

Clematis Crispa

Clematis Crispa is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. It is commonly known as the curly virgins’ broom or blue jasmine. This vine-like plant has distinctive, curly-edged petals that are a deep blue-purple color, and it typically blooms in the late spring or early summer. Clematis Crispa is native to the southeastern United States and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens or on trellises.

Clematis Rehderiana

Clematis Rehderiana is a species of flowering vine that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to China and can grow up to 6 meters in length. The plant produces yellow-green flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The leaves are pinnate, with each leaflet having a toothed margin. Clematis Rehderiana prefers to grow in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage.

Clematis Paniculata

Clematis Paniculata is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family, native to China and Japan. It is a vigorous climber that can reach heights of up to 20 feet, producing masses of fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late summer and early autumn. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, making it a popular choice for trellises, fences, and walls in gardens and landscapes.

Clematis Lanuginosa

Clematis Lanuginosa is a species of flowering vine that belongs to the buttercup family. It is native to China and is well-known for its beautiful, fluffy, white flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant typically grows up to 15 feet in length and requires support as it climbs and twines around objects. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and it prefers moist, well-draining soil in partial shade to full sun.

Clematis Texensis

Clematis Texensis is a species of flowering vine native to Texas and Mexico. It produces stunning, bell-shaped flowers in shades of red, pink, and white, which bloom in the summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant grows up to 8 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. It is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color and vertical interest to their landscapes.

Clematis Japonica

Clematis Japonica is a species of flowering vine that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Japan, where it grows in forests and along riverbanks. The vine can reach a height of up to 6 meters and has shiny, dark green leaves. Its small, bell-shaped flowers are typically white or pale pink with a yellow center, and they bloom in early spring. Clematis Japonica is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and can be trained to climb trellises or walls.

Clematis Koreana

Clematis Koreana is a deciduous climbing plant that is native to Korea. It features delicate, bell-shaped, purple-pink flowers that bloom in the late spring or early summer. The foliage is dark green and attractive, with leaves divided into three or five leaflets. This plant is ideal for trellises, fences, or walls, as it can grow up to 15 feet in height. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure.

Clematis Occidentalis

Clematis Occidentalis, commonly known as Western Blue Virginsbower or Purple Clematis, is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family. It is native to western North America and is characterized by its purple-blue, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant typically climbs or trails along rocky slopes, streambanks, and forest edges, and its foliage can provide habitat and food for a variety of wildlife species.

Clematis Viorna

Clematis Viorna, also known as “vasevine,”, is a deciduous climbing plant native to North America. It produces showy, bell-shaped flowers with striking purple-red petals and yellow anthers. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade and is commonly used in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental vine.

Clematis Deppei

Clematis Deppei is a flowering vine species that is native to Mexico and Central America. It produces showy, bell-shaped flowers that can be purple, pink, or white in color. The plant is often grown as an ornamental vine in gardens and landscapes, and it can climb up walls or trellises to create a beautiful, vertical display. Clematis Deppei prefers well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure, and it is a relatively low-maintenance plant.

Clematis Florida

Clematis Florida is a flowering vine species native to the southeastern United States. It produces an abundance of striking, large white or pink flowers with a sweet fragrance that bloom in the spring and summer. This vine is popular in gardens for its attractive blooms and ability to climb trellises or walls. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Clematis Ligusticifolia

Clematis Ligustrifolia is a species of woody vine native to western North America. It is also known as western white clematis or pepper vine and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and rocky slopes. The plant produces showy white flowers with yellow centers in the spring and summer, and its seeds are dispersed by wind. It is a well-known ornamental plant suitable for gardens and landscaping.

Clematis Vitalba

Clematis Vitalba, commonly known as Old Man’s Beard, is a climbing shrub with woody stems that can grow up to 20 meters long. It produces clusters of creamy-white flowers in the summer, followed by fluffy seedheads that resemble silky white beards. This hardy plant is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, and rocky areas. It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and can attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Clematis Hirsutissima

Clematis Hirsutissima is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae, native to North America. It is a deciduous vine that can grow up to 10 feet tall and has small, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring. The leaves are hairy, and the stems are thin and wiry. It is commonly used in gardens and landscaping as a climbing vine for trellises or fences.

Clematis Hybrid ‘Mrs. George Jackman’

Clematis Hybrid ‘Mrs. George Jackman’ is a beautiful flowering plant with large, showy, deep purple flowers. It is a climbing vine that can grow up to 10 feet tall and blooms from late spring to early fall. This hybrid species is a result of crossing Clematis lanuginosa and Clematis viticella. ‘Mrs. George Jackman’ is a popular cultivar that is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of soil types and growing conditions. It is commonly used in gardens and landscapes as a focal point or to add vertical interest to trellises, fences, and walls.

Clematis x Durandii

Clematis x Durandii is a hybrid flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It produces striking indigo-blue flowers with yellow anthers that bloom in mid- to late summer. This hardy vine is a climber, and its stems can grow up to 6–8 feet in length, making it perfect for decorating trellises, arbors, and walls. Clematis x Durandii prefers well-drained soil and full to partial sun exposure. It is a popular choice among gardeners and is known for its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Clematis ‘Perle d’Azur’

Clematis ‘Perle d’Azur’ is a flowering climbing plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It produces abundant, large, pale blue flowers with creamy white stamens that bloom from midsummer to early autumn. This cultivar is known for its vigorous growth, making it ideal for covering walls, fences, or trellises. It prefers a sunny to partially shaded location and well-draining soil.

Clematis x Triternata ‘Rubromarginata’

Clematis x Triternata ‘Rubromarginata’ is a hybrid flowering vine that produces beautiful pink and white flowers with distinctive red margins. This plant is a vigorous grower and can reach up to 10 feet in height, making it a great choice for climbing walls, trellises, or arbors. It blooms in late summer to early fall and prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.

Clematis x Cartmanii ‘Joe’

Clematis x Cartmanii ‘Joe’ is a cultivar of clematis, a flowering vine plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This hybrid cultivar is a result of crossing two different clematis species and is known for its compact habit and profuse blooming of white or pale-blue flowers in early spring. The “Joe’ cultivar is a popular choice for adding a splash of color to garden trellises, arbors, and containers and requires moderate maintenance and well-draining soil.

Clematis x Jackmanii

Clematis x Jackmanii is a hybrid climbing vine known for its stunningly large, velvety dark purple flowers with white stamens. It is a popular ornamental plant and can grow up to 20 feet tall. This species is hardy and easy to care for, making it a great choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their landscape.

Clematis x Jouiniana

Clematis x Jouiniana is a hybrid plant resulting from the crossbreeding of two species, Clematis integrifolia and Clematis vitalba. This climbing vine features delicate pinkish-white flowers and glossy green foliage, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardens and landscapes. It is known for its hardiness and ability to tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including both full sun and partial shade. Clematis x Jouiniana blooms from midsummer to early fall, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Clematis x Diversifolia ‘Hendersonii’

Clematis x Diversifolia ‘Hendersonii’ is a hybrid species of flowering vine that produces stunning blue-violet flowers with creamy centers. This hardy perennial plant is known for its vigorous growth and ability to thrive in a wide range of soil types and conditions. It is a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers looking to add color and texture to trellises, walls, and fences.

Clematis x Aromatica

Clematis x Aromatica is a deciduous climbing plant that is commonly grown for its fragrant white or pink flowers. It is a hybrid species that is believed to be a cross between Clematis flammula and Clematis lanuginosa. This plant is typically easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping projects. It likes moist, well-drained soil and full to partial sunlight exposure.

Clematis x Mandshurica

Clematis x Mandshurica is a hybrid plant species that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is a vigorous, deciduous climber with attractive, nodding, purple-blue flowers that bloom in early summer. The plant can reach a height of up to 3 meters and requires a sunny or partially shaded position with well-drained soil. This species is commonly used in garden designs to add color and interest to fences, walls, and trellises.

Clematis x Triternata ‘Rubromarginata’

Clematis x Triternata ‘Rubromarginata’ is a stunning deciduous vine that produces masses of delicate pink flowers with deep crimson edges. It has attractive green foliage and can grow up to 10 feet tall, making it a great choice for trellises, walls, and arbors. This plant blooms in the summer and fall and prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.

How To Grow And Care For Clematis

Clematis is a popular climbing plant that produces an abundance of colorful flowers. Here are some tips on how to grow and care for clematis:

Planting: Choose a site that receives at least 6 hours of sun per day and has well-draining soil. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball, and make sure the hole is spacious enough to accommodate the entire root system. Repot the plant into the hole and cover it up with soil. Water thoroughly.

Support: Clematis is a climbing plant and needs support to grow properly. You can use a trellis, fence, or other support structure to help the plant climb.

Watering: Clematis needs frequent watering, especially in hot and dry weather environements. Water thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.

Fertilizing: Clematis benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season, from spring to fall.

Pruning: Clematis requires pruning to control its growth and promote flowering. Different types of clematis require different pruning methods, so it’s important to identify the type of clematis you have before pruning. In general, early-flowering clematis should be pruned after flowering, while late-flowering clematis should be pruned in early spring.

Pest and disease control: Clematis is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Check your plants regularly and treat if there is any sight of pest quickly. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests and a fungicide to control powdery mildew.

By following these tips, you can grow and care for beautiful clematis plants in your garden.

How To Propagate Clematis

Clematis can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, division, layering, and stem cuttings. Here are some general steps for stem cutting propagation:

Materials:

• Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
• Rooting hormone (optional)
• Pots or containers filled with a well-draining potting mix
• Plastic bags or clear plastic containers

Steps:

1. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem from the current year’s growth. Ideally, the stem should be at least 6 inches long and have several nodes (points where leaves emerge).
2. Using clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a node.
3. Take off the leaves from the lower half of the stem.
4. Soak the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone (when necessary).
5. Insert the cutting into a pot or container filled with a well-draining potting mix, making sure at least two nodes are buried.
6. Water the cutting and cover it with a plastic bag or clear plastic container to create a humid environment.
7. Place the pot in a warm, bright area but out of direct sunlight.
8. Check the soil regularly and water as needed to keep it moist but not waterlogged.
9. After several weeks, gently tug on the cutting to see if it has rooted. If there is resistance, roots have likely formed.
10. Once the cutting has rooted, remove the plastic cover and gradually expose it to more light.
11. When the cutting has grown several new leaves and the roots have filled the container, it is ready to be transplanted into a larger container or planted in the ground.

Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Clematis

Q: What is Clematis?
A: Clematis is a genus of flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae. They are popular ornamental vines and are known for their large, showy flowers in various colors, including white, pink, red, purple, and blue.

Q: How do I care for my Clematis plant?
A: Clematis plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They require regular watering and benefit from occasional fertilization. Pruning is also important to encourage healthy growth and promote blooming.

Q: When do Clematis plants bloom?
A: Clematis plants bloom at different times depending on the variety, but generally, they bloom from late spring to early fall. Some species may have a second flush of blooms later in the season.

Q: How do I prune my Clematis plant?
A: The method of pruning depends on the type of Clematis you have. Group 1 Clematis does not require much pruning, except to remove dead or damaged wood. Group 2 Clematis should be pruned lightly in early spring to remove dead wood and encourage new growth. Group 3 Clematis should be pruned hard in late winter or early spring to promote new growth and abundant blooms.

Q: How do I propagate my Clematis plant?
A: Clematis can be propagated by seed, but it can be a slow and unreliable process. It is generally easier to propagate by stem cuttings. Take a 6-inch cutting from a healthy stem in the summer, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide indirect light until roots form.

Top 10 Interesting Facts About Clematis

1. Clematis is a large and diverse genus of flowering plants in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. There are over 300 species of clematis with a wide variety of flower shapes, colors, and growth habits.
2. Clematis is known for its stunning, showy flowers, which come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, white, and blue. Some species also have bicolored or multicolored flowers.
3. Clematis is a popular garden plant and can be grown in a variety of settings, including containers, trellises, walls, and fences. They are also great for covering unsightly objects like stumps or sheds.
4. Clematis is a perennial plant, which means it comes back year after year. Most clematis plants grow as vines, although there are some herbaceous species that grow as shrubs.
5. Clematis plants are easy to grow and maintain, although they do require some care to ensure their success. They prefer well-draining soil, regular watering, and a sunny location.
6. Clematis is named after the Greek word “klema,” which means vine or tendril. This is a reference to the plant’s climbing habit.
7. In traditional herbal medicine, clematis has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, rheumatism, and skin disorders.
8. Some clematis species are native to North America, while others are found in Asia and Europe.
9. Clematis flowers are popular with pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them an important part of any garden ecosystem.
10. In the language of flowers, clematis symbolizes mental beauty, ingenuity, and artifice. It is often associated with creativity and inspiration.