Alpine clematis (Clematis alpina) KLEM-ah-tiss al-PINE-ah Genus:  Clematis Alpine clematis is one of the earliest clematises to bloom, in early May. It bears relatively small but delightful nodding, bell-shaped flowers, 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, in a great variety of colors. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Early, profuse bloomer. Care:  Grows better in shade than in sun. Best suited for a north-facing, cool, shady position. Unless it starts to look scraggly, it rarely needs pruning, as it flowers on old growth. Grow in fertile, well-drained, acidic soil with abundant organic matter. Plant with the top of the root ball 3 to 5 inches below the surface and provide strong support. Propagation:  Root softwood cuttings in spring or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer. Problems:  Wilt, powdery mildew, rust, fungal spots, and stem cankers are common. Scale insects, whiteflies, earwigs, and aphids can occur.

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Habit Runs Light Part Shade to Full Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Flowers, Showy Seed Heads Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Blue, Pink, Purple Uses Trellis Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Vines