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Clematis alpina (Alpine clematis)

Clematis alpina Photo/Illustration: Sally & John Perkins

(Based on 1 user review)

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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Clematis alpina KLEM-ah-tiss al-PINE-ah Common Name: Alpine clematis Genus: Clematis
Alpine clematis is one of the earliest clematises to bloom, in early May. It bears relatively small but delightful nodding, bell-shaped flowers, 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, in a great variety of colors.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Early, profuse bloomer.
 Care: Grows better in shade than in sun. Best suited for a north-facing, cool, shady position. Unless it starts to look scraggly, it rarely needs pruning, as it flowers on old growth. Grow in fertile, well-drained, acidic soil with abundant organic matter. Plant with the top of the root ball 3 to 5 inches below the surface and provide strong support.
 Propagation: Root softwood cuttings in spring or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer.
 Problems: Wilt, powdery mildew, rust, fungal spots, and stem cankers are common. Scale insects, whiteflies, earwigs, and aphids can occur.
Height 6 ft. to 10 ft.
Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Growth Habit Runs
Light Part Shade to Full Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Showy Flowers; Showy Seed Heads
Bloom Time Spring
Flower Color Blue Flower; Pink Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses Trellis
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest, Summer Interest
Type Vines

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