Plant Library

Other Names:  Ground Clematis

Description:

It may be related to a clematis, but this is actually a colorful garden perennial rather than a vine; forms a dense mound of deep purple foliage that fades to very dark green in the heat of summer as showy white star-shaped flowers appear atop the foliage

Ornamental Features

Purple Ground Clematis features airy panicles of lightly-scented white star-shaped flowers at the ends of the stems in early summer. Its attractive compound leaves emerge deep purple in spring, turning dark green in colour with hints of deep purple throughout the season.

Landscape Attributes

Purple Ground Clematis is a dense herbaceous perennial with a mounded form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.

This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and should be cut back in late fall in preparation for winter. It is a good choice for attracting hummingbirds to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Spreading

Purple Ground Clematis is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• General Garden Use
• Groundcover

Planting & Growing

Purple Ground Clematis will grow to be about 3 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 3 feet. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!

This plant does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist growing conditions, but will not tolerate any standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.