Clematis – Viticella Group

As climbers, Clematis are unsurpassed in their long flowering presence, the rich diversity of flower shapes, a wide array of colors, and tolerances in terms of exposure and climate. It is no wonder they are so popular! From tree huggers to container varieties, there is a Clematis for every garden and flowers for almost every month of the year!

Members of the Ranunculaceae family, Clematis include more than 300 species and hundreds of hybrids. They are divided into 12 main groups, each with consistent flower size, blooming season, pruning, and garden use characteristics.

Clematis viticella

Clematis viticella, commonly known as the Italian Leather Flower, is a deciduous climbing vine native to southern Europe.  The Viticella group of clematis includes deciduous climbing shrubs regarded as durable, easy-care, vigorous, and free-flowering.

• Habit and Size: It displays a vigorous growth habit, often reaching heights of 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters).
• Foliage: Their pinnate leaves, composed of 5-7 leaflets, are smaller than those of large-flowered varieties but are healthier and less subject to clematis wilt. They often remain green until frost.
• Flowers: The plant bears small to medium-sized, 2-5 inches (4-13 cm), single to double, nodding, and open bell-shaped flowers, typically in hues of vibrant purples, pinks, and blues.
• Blooming Season: These blooms appear from midsummer to early autumn, offering a striking display against the plant’s lush green foliage.
• Hardiness: Clematis viticella is a hardy plant tolerant of temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit (USDA hardiness zones 4-11).
• Uses: It is an excellent choice for vertical gardening, capable of adorning trellises, fences, and walls, or even used as a ground cover. It can grow through shrubs, climbing roses, and into small trees. It can be grown in large containers if given room enough to grow.
• Pollinators:The plant is attractive to a range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, enriching local biodiversity.
• Deer and Rabbit: Clematis viticella is generally not appealing to deer and rabbits.
• Toxicity: Can lead to severe discomfort if ingested or irritation upon contact with the skin. Toxic to cars, dogs, and horses.