9.3k saves
Clematis
We track 226 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Clematis varieties
See all 226 Clematis varieties →Search this genus →
26 species of Clematis
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Clematis in Sow
Save the Clematis you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Clematis
Whats common across all Clematis varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 40 most-grown of them.
The Clematis year
- PruneJanuary and February100% of varieties
Hard prune (Group 3) in late winter/early spring to 12-18 inches above ground
- FertilizeMarch and May100% of varieties
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
- MulchMarch and April95% of varieties
Apply thick mulch layer to keep roots cool and moist
- PlantMarch, April, September and October43% of varieties
Plant in spring or fall, ensuring the crown is 2 inches below soil level
- StakeMarch–May30% of varieties
Tie new growth to support structure; this variety does not cling
Do
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Prune after flowering for better blooms
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
What goes wrong with Clematis
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Distorted or sticky leaves with sooty mold | Use neem oil spray or insecticidal soap |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing, speckled leaves | Apply insecticidal soap and increase humidity |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing and speckled leaves | Apply insecticidal soap or miticide |
| Clematis wilt | Wilting and blackening of stems | Remove affected stems and improve air circulation |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Use fungicidal spray and improve air flow |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
Making more Clematis
Cuttings
- Select healthy semi-hardwood stems in late summer.
- Cut 4-6 inch sections just below a node.
- Dip cuttings in rooting hormone powder.
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil or potting mix.
- Keep soil moist and place in indirect sunlight.
- Roots typically develop in 6 weeks.
Layering
- Choose a flexible, low-growing stem in early spring.
- Bury a section of stem in soil, leaving the tip exposed.
- Secure with a U-shaped pin or stone.
- Water regularly and wait for roots to form in 3–4 months.
- Cut from the parent plant and transplant.
Clematis questions
How many types of Clematis are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 226 distinct Clematis varieties. The most popular — ranked by 9.3k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Clematis grow in?
Across its varieties, Clematis covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Clematis bloom?
Most Clematis varieties bloom in summer to early fall, mid-summer, early summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Clematis should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.