Clematis is derived from the Greek word “klema” which means climbing twig or shoot.   There are many types of Clematis with different size flowers.  Most think of the Clematis as having large, showy flowers.  However, there are a number of Clematis’ that have smaller, equally beautiful flowers.

Clematis prefer a soil that is consistently moist and drains well.  They should not have less then four hours of sun per day. However, being in the hot sun all day long may cause some leaf and flower burn.

Clematis fall into three pruning groups based on plant growth and habit.

• Group 1 – These are early spring bloomers that flower on the previous year’s growth.  This group can be left unpruned some years.  When you do prune, do it after blooming so they can develop wood for the next year.

• Group 2 – These are spring and early summer bloomers and they produce flowers on the previous years growth and new growth.  Annual pruning is essential.  In late winter or early spring, prune all dead stems to ground level.  Leave the healthier stems until after the first spring bloom and then trim back halfway down the stem to encourage a second period of blooming in late summer or early fall.  Some of the varieties in this group include:
  • Nelly Moser
  • Stand By Me
  • Huldine
  • Ramona

• Group 3 – These produce flowers on growth from the current season in late summer and early fall.  In late winter or early spring cut these plants down to approximately 2 feet from the ground.  Make sure you do this every year.  Some of the varieties in this group include:
  • Blue Boy
  • Jackmanii
  • Sweet Summer Love
  • Ville de Lyon