Clematis integrifolia
This is a non‑climbing, herbaceous clematis that forms a low mound. It bears solitary, nodding, urn‑shaped blue flowers over a long season. It suits sunny borders and meadow‑style plantings where light staking is possible. Stems die back to the woody base each year in cold regions. It prefers cool, evenly moist soil with good drainage. Seed heads provide ornamental interest after bloom.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Herbaceous clematis; Pruning Group 3
- Height × spread: 1.5–3 ft × 2–3 ft (0.5–0.9 m × 0.6–0.9 m)
- Bloom window: May to September
- Color & flower form: Nodding urn‑shaped blue flowers, about 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm)
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 3 to 7
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, Central Europe to Asia
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Non‑climbing habit compared with typical twining clematis
- Compact height for front of border
- Flowers over a long summer window
- Dies back each winter in cold climates
Strengths
- Cold hardy and durable in zones 3 to 7
- Deer and black walnut tolerant in many gardens
- Attractive seed heads after flowering
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun to part shade; protect root zone with mulch.
- Soil: fertile, well‑drained, moisture‑retentive; neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Water: keep evenly moist; do not allow prolonged drought.
- Feeding: light spring fertilizer; avoid heavy nitrogen.
- Pruning: Group 3; cut stems back to low buds in late winter.
- Overwintering: no special care beyond mulch in colder zones.
Watch‑outs
- Can sprawl without light support or neighboring plants
- Needs consistent moisture in summer
- Standard clematis diseases possible in humid weather
Best uses (tags)
borders, meadow plantings, pollinators, containers
Provenance note
Species native from central Europe into Asia; a clump‑forming, woody‑based perennial rather than a twining vine.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Plant Finder: Clematis integrifolia
- RHS – Clematis integrifolia profile
- NC State Extension – Clematis (general culture)
- ASPCA – Clematis toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us