Clematis virginiana - Virgin's Bower - Photo courtesy of Sean James Consulting & Design

Virgin's Bower

Clematis virginiana

Also called Devil's Darning Needles, Devil's Hair, Love Vine

  • Flower Colour: Small white
  • Flower Size: 3 cm
  • Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
  • Pruning Group: 3
  • Profuse clusters at leaf axils
  • Leaves are bright green, 10 cm long, with three sharply-toothed ovate leaflets
  • Feathery seed heads

ZONE:
4

COLOUR:
White

HEIGHT:
4-6 m

SPREAD:
4-5 m

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Growing and Maintenance Tips:


Clematis virginiana is known to be a prolific self-seeder. Clematis grow best in a rich, moist to average, well-drained soil, in full sun. Protection from intense afternoon sun is beneficial. Large-flowering bi-colours, reds, and blues may fade quickly if planted in direct sun. Roots need a cool environment to thrive; it is recommended to plant a ground cover or shallow-rooted perennial to shade the roots; mulching is suggested. Plant the crown 3-5 cm below the soil's surface. Clematis are slow to establish and initially need to be tied to a trellis or fence to begin climbing.

Additional Notes about Virgin's Bower:


Native to Ontario

Larval host for native moths, including the Clearwing Moth. The flowers provide copious nectar for many species of native bees, wasps, butterflies and other insects. The feathery seeds provide food and nesting materials for small birds. 

The foliage is toxic if ingested, and may cause skin irritation for some individuals.

Clematis are grouped into three different categories for pruning and maintenance:

Group 3: Late Flowering - Flowers form on the terminal 60-90 cm of the current season's growth. Some bloom as early as midsummer and continue into the fall. In early spring, prune each stem, leaving the lowest 2-3 buds. The new growth can be tipped back when it reaches about 30 cm, to induce better branching and flowering.