vine RHS Award

Durand's Clematis

Clematis x durandii

The Story

Plant Bio

A non-clinging, herbaceous perennial clematis, often treated as a sub-shrub. It scrambles through other plants or requires tying to a support, producing large, indigo-blue flowers.

A long-blooming hybrid between a climbing and a non-climbing species, resulting in a non-vining habit. Valued for its large, rich indigo-blue, saucer-shaped flowers and its use as a cut flower.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesClematis x durandii offers stunning blue flowers that provide vertical interest and elegance in gardens.
Practical UsesIts vigorous growth helps conceal unsightly structures, creating a lush, natural screen.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies during its flowering season.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

84 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck young vines into a sturdy trellis or arbor for support.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
  3. Plant in well-drained soil enriched with organic compost.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry spells to promote healthy growth.
  5. Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead or weak stems.
  6. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Provide a sunny or partially shaded spot for optimal flowering and vine vigor.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
  • Prune after blooming to encourage new growth
  • Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune in late fall or winter
  • Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Climbing vine on trellisesDecorative cover for fencesElegant backdrop for garden structures

Companion Plants

Roses Lavender Daylilies Hostas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Durand's Clematis questions

What zones can Durand's Clematis grow in?

Durand's Clematis is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Durand's Clematis deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Durand's Clematis, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Durand's Clematis bloom?

Durand's Clematis typically blooms in summer to early fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Durand's Clematis need full sun?

Durand's Clematis does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Durand's Clematis with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.