Ask Annie- Choosing the Right Clematis for Your Garden

-Maryellen, Zone 5a

Hey Maryellen,

Thanks for giving me an excuse to talk about one of my all-time favorite perennial vines! Clematis are absolute stars in Minnesota gardens: climbing, blooming, and stealing the show all season long. The only problem? There are so many to choose from it’s easy to fall down a plant-shopping rabbit hole.

Don’t worry, I’ve got you. Let’s sort through the options and talk about some of my favorite clematis picks for sunny to shady spots, so you can plant with confidence! Since you have mostly shade, Maryellen, I would recommend checking out the part shade varieties below.

Full Sun (6+ hours):

• Tangutica: Yellow bell flowers, vigorous vine, 10-15ft, group 3
• Miss Bateman: White, moderate climber, 6-8ft, group 2
• Cardinal Wyszynski: Rich red, moderate climber, 6-10ft, group 3
• Sweet Summer Love: Cranberry-red star flowers, vigorous vine, 10-15ft, group 2
• Parisienne: Soft lavender, compact climber, 3-4ft, group 2

Part Shade (4-6 hours):

• Alionushka: Nodding pink bell flowers, scrambler, 5-8ft, group 3
• Silver Moon: Silvery-pink, moderate climber, 8-10ft, group 2
• Nelly Moser: Soft pink with dark pink bars, moderate climber, 6-10ft, group 2
• Guernsey Cream: Creamy white, moderate climber, 6-8ft, group 2
• Jackmanii: Deep purple, vigourous climber, 10-15ft, group 3

Clematis are usually grouped by when they bloom, or more specifically when they set their buds - and that’s the key to knowing how to care for them without overthinking it.

I always recommend leaving your clematis standing through the winter (yes, even when they look a little scraggly!) since that extra growth helps protect the crown and adds a bit of winter interest. Come spring, though, a good trim goes a long way. Pruning at the right time encourages stronger growth, better blooms, and an overall happier, better-looking plant. Once you choose your clematis, check out our guide on care here.

And remember, gardening is never about perfection, it’s about curiosity, patience, and perserverance! I’m cheering you on as you try new things, learn from the missteps, and celebrate each little success. Until our next chat, happy gardening and keep growing!

-Annie

Have a perennial issue, mystery, or design dilemma? Annie can help!

Always approachable and happy to help!