Clematis alpina
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ALPINE CLEMATIS
Family: Ranunculaceae
Pronounced: KLEM-uh-tiss al-PEEN-uh
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
European Alps.
Plant Group:
Vines.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: All (western).
USDA zones: 6-9.
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Flowering period: Spring to early summer.
Flowering attributes: Single, bell-shaped, blue flowers with white centers.
Leaf attributes: Deciduous, green leaves.
Light: Tops in full sun to partial shade, feet in shade.
Soil: Fertile, humus rich, well-drained soil.
Feeding: Mulch well with composted manure or compost. Fertilize once a month with a complete organic fertilizer during the growing season.
Propagation Methods: Sow seed and keep at 65-75°F (18-23°C); germination should occur rapidly. If germination has not occurred within 4 weeks, place seed trays where temperatures are 25-40°F (-3 to 4°C) for up to 4 weeks. | Layer branches in late winter. | Basal and softwood cuttings in spring. | Division in spring. | Semi-ripe cuttings in early summer.
Pruning Methods: Pruning group 1 or A.
Rainy Side Notes
Clematis alpina discovered in 1768, is a beautiful true-blue color and blooms about the same time as C. montana, although not as exuberantly. C alpina had an Award of Merit bestowed upon it in 1993, by the Royal Horticultural Society.
In my garden, it climbs up a stump, falls down, gets trampled on and still manages to flourish. It weaves in and out of Salal and a climbing Aster, giving the spring garden a breath of blue. Occasionally it will flower again in autumn.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
Additional Reading
Planting and Care of Clematis.
Book Recommendation: Gardening with Clematis : Design & Cultivation
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