Family
Ranunculaceae
Botanical Name
CLEMATIS montana var. grandiflora
Plant Common Name
Virgin's Bower
General Description
This is an exceptional variety of virgin's bower and among the earliest clematis to bloom in spring. Such a large and elegant white-flowered vine creates an instant focal point in both bright sun or under moonlight. The parent species is native to China where it is found most abundantly in the Himalayan Mountains. Deciduous and woody, it is long-lived and capable of reaching a mammoth length over time. This variety is slightly smaller in scale but compensates with larger flowers. Its strong twining stems bear deep green, three-parted leaves.
Its simple, lightly fragrant, white flowers are borne singly or in small groups. They are produced heavily over a period of about three weeks from late spring into early summer. This is a Group I clematis, which means its flower buds form on the previous year’s growth and vines must be pruned immediately after flowering. Pruning at any other time may jeopardize next year’s flowers.
This species grows best in sites with full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. It prefers neutral to alkaline soils with good drainage and grows and flowers best if its roots remain cool under a vegetative layer or thick mulch. Use this vine in a location where it can ramble freely. Make it a seasonal focal point while in bloom, then take advantage of the foliage to cover an arbor, fence or trellis to provide privacy or shade during the summer.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 6
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USDA Hardiness Zone
6 - 9
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Sunset Zone
3b, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18
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Plant Type
Vine/Liana
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
15'-30' / 4.6m - 9.1m
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Bloom Time
Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer
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Native To
China
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Vining/Climbing
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
