Clematis virginiana

Virgin’s-bower, a native of the central and eastern United States and Canada, is a woody, perennial vine in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). The species epithet is Latin for “Virginian.”

Virgin’s-bower prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial to some deep shade. It is one of the few vines that will flower in shade. It can be pruned any time during the growing season to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Pruning can be as low as 8 to 12 inches above ground if a couple of healthy leaf buds are on the remaining stalks. The best time to prune for the next year is late fall to early spring (Type 3). Propagate by layering, seed or stem cutting.

It is a rapid grower and can reach 15 to 20 feet high and 3 to 6 feet wide, climbing by its clinging leaf stalks. Virgin’s-bower has showy, fragrant blooms in the autumn. It attracts a variety of pollinators, including hummingbirds. This plant may be less frequently damaged by deer and rabbits. Requiring less maintenance, the male plant is not adorned with seeds (versus the female, which does produce seeds) but is showier (in comparison to the female plant).

This easy-to-grow vine works well in a woodland, native, pollinator or shade garden, where it has room to twine up supports or fences, otherwise, it will scramble along the ground. It can grow over and overwhelm landscape shrubs.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Clematis wilt, powdery mildew, leaf spots, rust, and viruses can be problematic. Potential insect pests include aphids, vine weevils, slugs/snails, scale and earwigs. Watch for spider mites. It self-seeds and can become weedy.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens. 

More information on Clematis.