vine

Clematis Bourbon

Clematis x hybrida 'Bourbon'

The Story

Plant Bio

Clematis x hybrida 'Bourbon' is a vigorous deciduous climbing vine with glossy green foliage and large, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of purple with a hint of blue, creating a striking display.

This cultivar is renowned for its robust growth habit and its ability to produce an abundance of large, fragrant flowers throughout the summer, making it ideal for trellises and wall coverings.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides lush, flowering greenery that enhances vertical spaces and attracts pollinators.
Practical UsesCreates privacy screens and supports climbing structures.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with nectar-rich blooms.
SpeciesClematis x hybridaClematis

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

120 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Cultivated hybrid

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

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In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a sunny, well-drained spot for planting.
  2. Tuck roots in a cool, shaded area and train vines onto supports.
  3. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  4. Provide a sturdy trellis or arbor for climbing growth.
  5. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  6. Prune after flowering to encourage new growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with added compost for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune annually after flowering
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Support with trellises or fences

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Don't let roots dry out
  • Refrain from heavy pruning in late summer
  • Never plant in waterlogged soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid climbing vine on fencesElegant floral backdrop for garden bedsFragrant border along pathways

Companion Plants

Lavender Hostas Daylilies SedumEchinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Clematis Bourbon questions

What zones can Clematis Bourbon grow in?

Clematis Bourbon is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Clematis Bourbon deer resistant?

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

When does Clematis Bourbon bloom?

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

Does Clematis Bourbon need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Clematis Bourbon 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.