Clematis viticella
This species clematis is a vigorous, dependable summer bloomer. It is noted for open, nodding bells in purple to violet tones. It performs best in sun with cool, shaded roots and steady moisture. It is widely adapted across much of North America. Pruning is straightforward because it flowers on new growth. It is often less prone to wilt than many large‑flowered hybrids.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Viticella Group; Pruning Group 3
- Height × spread: 10–15 ft × 3–5 ft (3.0–4.6 m × 0.9–1.5 m)
- Bloom window: summer to fall
- Color & flower form: Purple to violet, open bell‑shaped flowers, 1–3 in (2.5–7.5 cm)
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 4 to 8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, Southern Europe to Asia
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Flowers later than many spring clematis
- Smaller, bell‑shaped flowers rather than broad star forms
- Generally better wilt tolerance than large‑flowered hybrids
- Strong regrowth after hard spring pruning
Strengths
- Long bloom season in warm weather
- Handles pruning and renovation well
- Good vigor with modest footprint
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun to part shade; keep the root zone shaded and cool.
- Soil: moist but well‑drained; neutral to alkaline pH.
- Water: provide steady moisture during active growth.
- Feeding: light, balanced feeding in spring; avoid excess nitrogen.
- Pruning: Group 3; cut back hard in late winter to encourage new flowering shoots.
- Overwintering: mulch crown in colder sites; otherwise typical protection is sufficient.
Watch‑outs
- Can develop powdery mildew in crowded, dry sites
- Requires regular moisture at the root zone
- Needs support for twining leaf stalks
Best uses (tags)
arbors, fences, pollinators, cottage gardens
Provenance note
Species native to southern Europe and into western Asia; widely used in breeding of modern clematis.
References
- NC State Extension – Clematis viticella
- RHS – Clematis viticella profile
- RHS – Clematis: pruning groups
- 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