Species
Clematis virginianaVirgin's Bower1 other cultivar
Same species
Species
Clematis virginianaVirgin's Bower1 other cultivar
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Vine
Height
144 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Clematis virginiana, commonly known as Virgin's Bower, is a vigorous deciduous climber with attractive, compound green foliage and clusters of small, creamy-white flowers that produce a sweet fragrance in late summer to fall. This cultivar is distinguished by its rapid growth and ability to cover large areas quickly, making it an excellent choice for trellises and fences, with a lovely scent that attracts pollinators.
Uses & Benefits:
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Provide a trellis or support for climbing.
- Water regularly during first growing season.
- Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead growth.
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in spring.
Pro Tip
Ensure strong support and consistent watering for best climbing performance.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season
- Prevent excessive pruning during active growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Virgin's Bower questions
What zones can Virgin's Bower grow in?
Virgin's Bower 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 Virgin's Bower deer resistant?
Yes — Virgin's Bower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Virgin's Bower bloom?
Virgin's Bower typically blooms in late summer to fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Virgin's Bower need full sun?
Virgin's Bower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Clematis to compare
Tie Dye Clematis
Clematis viticella 'Tie Dye'
Dr. Ruppel Clematis
Clematis x jackmanii 'Dr Ruppel'
Burning Love Clematis
Clematis x cartmanii 'Burning Love'
Yuan Clematis
Clematis viticella 'Yuan'
Tsukiko Clematis
Clematis x durandii 'Tsukiko'
Viva Polonia Clematis
Clematis x hybrida 'Viva Polonia'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Virgin's Bower 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.