Species

Clematis viticellaItalian Clematis

55 other cultivars

vine

Kitty clematis

Clematis viticella 'Kitty'

Same species

Species

Clematis viticellaItalian Clematis

55 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

60 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested; can cause skin irritation

The Story

Plant Bio

Clematis viticella 'Kitty' is a vigorous climbing plant with a stunning display of flowers. 'Kitty' is a compact cultivar featuring charming, nodding, bell-shaped flowers that are creamy white to very pale pink with a deeper pink blush on the exterior of the sepals.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Clematis viticella Kitty provides vibrant, showy flowers that enhance vertical spaces and fences, creating a lush, colorful display.

Its vigorous growth can be used as a natural privacy screen or decorative garden feature.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to garden biodiversity.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young vines into a trellis or fence for support within 2 weeks.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during establishment.
Mist cuttings with water and place in bright, indirect light for rooting.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Apply mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for vigorous growth.

Pro Tip

Provide sturdy support early to prevent damage and encourage healthy climbing.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry spells 💧
Prune after flowering to promote dense growth ✂️
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter, as it may remove next season’s buds ❌
Refrain from using high-nitrogen fertilizers which can promote weak growth ❌
Avoid neglecting support structures for climbing

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant climbing hedgeDecorative trellis accentColorful garden border

Companion Plants

Lavender Roses Hostas Daylilies Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Kitty clematis questions

What zones can Kitty clematis grow in?

Kitty 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 Kitty clematis deer resistant?

Yes — Kitty clematis is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Kitty clematis bloom?

Kitty clematis typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Kitty clematis need full sun?

Kitty clematis does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.