Species

Clematis viticellaItalian Clematis

55 other cultivars

vine

Heather Herschell clematis

Clematis viticella 'Heather Herschell'

Same species

Species

Clematis viticellaItalian Clematis

55 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

48 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested, can cause skin irritation.

The Story

Plant Bio

Clematis x diversifolia 'Heather Herschell' is a non-climbing, herbaceous perennial clematis. It produces nodding, bell-shaped, deep pink flowers with recurved tips. This cultivar is valued for its long bloom period from summer into fall and its scrambling habit, making it suitable for growing through shrubs or as a groundcover.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid purple blooms add charm to vertical spaces and pergolas, providing a lush, flowering display throughout the growing season.

Climbs and covers unsightly walls or fences, offering privacy and aesthetic appeal.

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

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young vines into a sturdy trellis or fence.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Water consistently during dry periods for healthy growth.
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Prune after flowering to shape the vine and remove dead wood.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Provide strong support structures for vigorous climbing and ensure well-drained soil.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to encourage dense growth
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
Support with trellises or arbors
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not prune in late fall or winter
Avoid fertilizing with high nitrogen in late summer
Do not neglect support structures
Avoid planting in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Climbing vine on trellisesFlowering accent along fencesVertical garden centerpiece

Companion Plants

Roses Lavender Salvia Hostas Daylilies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Heather Herschell clematis questions

What zones can Heather Herschell clematis grow in?

Heather Herschell 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 Heather Herschell clematis deer resistant?

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

When does Heather Herschell clematis bloom?

Heather Herschell clematis typically blooms in mid-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 Heather Herschell clematis need full sun?

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