Clematis (Clematis × durandii)
Discover Clematis × durandii, a showy, non-twining vine yielding bluish-purple blooms from July to September in zones 5-9.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Clematis × durandii is a highly valued, smaller-flowered hybrid that offers brilliant color throughout the mid to late summer. Unlike many twining relatives, this deciduous vine exhibits a unique scrambling habit, making it incredibly versatile in garden design. Gardeners prize the long bloom period of this Clematis cultivar.
This hybrid, a cross between C. Jackmanii and C. Integrifolia, produces showy, approximately 4-inch diameter flowers featuring deep bluish-purple petals contrasted by appealing creamy yellow stamens. The extended bloom time, lasting from early summer well into the fall, ensures reliable color when many other flowering shrubs have faded.
For optimal health and the best flowering display from your Clematis × durandii, ensure site selection balances light requirements with root protection. This plant thrives in soil that stays consistently cool and moist, signaling the importance of foundational cultural practices for long-term success.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Ranunculaceae
- Plant Type: Vine
- Native Range: Garden origin
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5-9
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 6-10 ft
- Spread: 3-6 ft
- Bloom Time: July to September
- Bloom Description: Bluish purple with creamy stamens
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Planting should occur when the soil is workable, ideally in spring or early fall. The Clematis × durandii requires fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil, and performs best with ample sunlight, though it tolerates partial shade well. Given that Clematis roots must be kept cool, applying a thick layer of mulch around the base is crucial to maintain uniform moisture and temperature. Remember, this variety is intolerant of heavy clay soils, so amend generously if necessary.
Watering should be consistent, striving for medium moisture levels, especially during dry spells, as uniform moisture helps support the plant’s extended summer bloom. Fertilizing practices for Clematis often involve feeding in spring, but specific routines depend on soil composition. The most significant maintenance task involves pruning.
Proper pruning is essential for this new-growth bloomer. Prune Clematis × durandii aggressively to the ground in early spring just before new growth begins to emerge. Since it blooms on wood produced that same season, cutting it back hard encourages vigorous new flowering stems. Avoid letting the roots dry out or overheat, which is a primary cause of stress for many Clematis.
Landscape Uses
The non-twining nature of Clematis × durandii defines its landscape utility. This plant is best utilized as a scrambling vine rather than one strictly tied to an aggressive vertical support. Allow it to sprawl naturally over robust, low-growing shrubs, letting it emerge through the foliage for a mixed textural effect.
It functions beautifully when allowed to ramble over old tree stumps, acting as a living groundcover in strategic, highly visible areas. Alternatively, situate this magnificent vine at the front of a perennial border where its foliage can anchor the base while the flowering stems weave through sturdier neighbors. While it can be trained up a minimal support, embrace its habit to provide spectacular, long-lasting color across the middle and back layers of the garden design.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Good Cut
Noteworthy Characteristics
Clematis × durandii is noted for its long bloom period, featuring showy, 4-inch flowers that last from early summer into fall. As a non-twining, deciduous vine, it is a unique offering within the genus. This valuable hybrid results from a cross between C. Jackmanii and C. Integrifolia.
Tolerances
- Deer
- Black Walnut
Potential Problems
Clematis wilt is a significant concern, primarily affecting large-flowered hybrid varieties; this fatal fungal disease requires prompt action if observed. Cultural issues often manifest as disease problems, so maintaining excellent drainage and discouraging excessive humidity around the base is key prevention. Powdery mildew, leaf spots, and rust can also appear sporadically on this Clematis.
Insect pests are less devastating but require vigilance, particularly for aphids, slugs, and snails, which may chew foliage or developing tissue. Monitor regularly for spider mites, especially during hot, dry conditions. Ensure the roots remain cool and moist, as stressed plants are more susceptible to both pests and diseases affecting this lovely Clematis variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Clematis × durandii suitable for?
Clematis × durandii is reliably hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 9.
How large does Clematis × durandii grow?
This variety typically reaches a mature height between 6 and 10 feet, with a spread ranging from 3 to 6 feet.
When does Clematis × durandii bloom?
This vigorous Clematis blooms reliably from July into September, showcasing bluish-purple flowers accented by creamy stamens.
What sun exposure does Clematis × durandii need?
It requires full sun to part shade; while full sun encourages the most blooms, partial shade offers valuable protection.
Conclusion
Incorporating Clematis × durandii into your landscape design offers reliable summer and fall color through its unique, non-twining growth habit and showy, long-lasting blooms. This robust Clematis performs best when its roots are kept cool with mulch, ensuring long-term vitality. Before planting, confirm your garden site falls within USDA Zones 5-9 and prepare the soil for excellent drainage.
Companion Planting
When planning a perennial border featuring this scrambling Clematis, select companions that share the need for sun and medium moisture but offer contrasting textures or bloom times. Consider using sturdy, clump-forming perennials like Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) or ornamental grasses. These companions can help shade the base of the Clematis, keeping the roots cool while their vertical forms contrast nicely with the vine’s looser profile.
Avoid planting anything too aggressive right next to the base, as this Clematis needs space to sprawl and dislikes being smothered near the crown. The strong architectural elements of roses, particularly shrub roses, offer excellent support for weaving stems throughout the bush, creating a stunning mixed display that maximizes visual impact.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring is the critical preparation time for Clematis × durandii. In early spring, prune the entire plant back to a few inches above the ground; this hard prune promotes flowering on the new growth that defines this variety. Simultaneously, apply a fresh layer of mulch (3-4 inches deep) to insulate the roots against summer heat and suppress weeds trying to compete for moisture.
Summer care centers on water management. While the mature vine is medium-water-needing, be vigilant during heatwaves; deep, infrequent watering is better than light sprinkling, ensuring the moisture reaches the root zone. Deadheading is generally unnecessary, as the spent flowers give way naturally to attractive seed heads, though you can snip off faded clusters for a tidier look.
In autumn, after the foliage dies back, cease heavy watering as the plant enters dormancy. Do not cut back the dead stems until late winter or very early spring, as the old growth can offer slight winter protection to the crown in colder zones. This timing is crucial to avoid accidentally removing emerging buds for the following season.
