Clematis macropetala: Downy Clematis for Cold Climates

Clematis macropetala – Hardy Downy Clematis for Zone 4

Hardy deciduous early bloomer for Zone 4. Climbs to 10 feet with support. Bell-shaped purple-blue almost columbine-like flowers (1–2 inches, sometimes 4 inches) maturing to fluffy pinkish seed heads. Blooms spring/early summer, sometimes second flush late summer/early autumn.

Culture

Usually sun but well-suited to shade. Scramble through low shrubs or tub/basket. Little/no pruning needed. Can hard prune to 12 inches after flowering if outgrown space. New shoots bloom following spring. Cool moist roots, fertile well-drained acidic soil with organic matter. Plant root ball 3–5 inches below surface, strong support. Propagate by softwood cuttings in spring or semi-ripe early summer. Pests: wilt, powdery mildew, rust, fungal spots, stem cankers; scale, whiteflies, earwigs, aphids.

Key Features

• Height: 6–10 ft.
• Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Bloom: Spring to summer (blue, pink, purple)
• Features: Very hardy, showy seed heads