Species

Clematis viticellaItalian Clematis

55 other cultivars

vine

Star River Clematis

Clematis viticella 'Star River'

The Story

Plant Bio

Clematis viticella 'Star River' is known for its gorgeous purple flowers and vigorous growth habit.

This cultivar features unique star-shaped flowers that are resilient and attract pollinators.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant, long-lasting flowers that enhance vertical spaces and add color to garden structures.

Offers natural privacy and shade when trained on fences or arbors.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies with nectar-rich blooms.

SpeciesClematis viticellaItalian Clematis

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

60 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young vines into a sturdy trellis or fence with gentle support.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for rooting.
Water deeply once a week during dry periods to promote healthy growth.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Prune after flowering to encourage vigorous growth and flowering the next season.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Train Clematis viticella Star River on a sunny, well-drained support for best flowering results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for optimal blooming 🌞
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 💧
Prune annually to promote healthy growth ✂️
Use organic compost to enrich soil 🌱

Don't

Avoid overly wet or poorly drained soil ❌
Don’t prune in late summer or fall, as it may cut off next season’s buds ❌
Don’t forget to support the vines to prevent damage ❌
Avoid excessive fertilization which can lead to lush but weak growth ❌

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

Vine-covered arch for romantic garden entrancesClimbing accent on garden fencesVertical feature in cottage gardens

Companion Plants

Lavender Roses Daylilies Hostas Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Star River Clematis questions

What zones can Star River Clematis grow in?

Star River Clematis is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Star River Clematis deer resistant?

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

When does Star River Clematis bloom?

Star River 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 Star River Clematis need full sun?

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

Is Star River Clematis drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Star River Clematis handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.