Common Name: clematis
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Ranunculaceae
Native Range: Central and northern China
Zone: 3 to 8
Height: 3.00 to 4.00 feet
Spread: 3.00 to 4.00 feet
Bloom Time: August to September
Bloom Description: Violet blue
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flower: Showy, Fragrant
Leaf: Fragrant
Tolerate: Deer, Black Walnut
Culture
Grow in fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers full sun. Roots should be kept cool (shade with annuals or perennials and/or use a 2" mulch) and uniformly moist. Tight interplanting with similarly sized but sturdier perennials will not only provide shade for the roots but also will provide needed support. May be divided in spring.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Clematis tubulosa is a woody based (subshrub), non-climbing tube clematis. It features erect stems typically growing 3-4' tall and violet blue, tube-shaped (hyacinth-like) flowers (1" long) which are borne in axillary clusters or at the stem tips in late summer. Flowers are very fragrant. Flowers give way to attractive, fluffy seed heads. Compound, ternate foliage is also scented and can be used in potpourri.
Genus name comes from the Greek word klematis which is an old name applied to climbing plants.
Specific epithet means tubular or pipe-like.
Problems
Clematis wilt is a potentially fatal fungal disease that can affect any clematis, but large-flowered, hybrid varieties are the most susceptible. Powdery mildew, leaf spots, rust and viruses can also be problematic. Potential insect pests include aphids, vine weevils, slugs/snails, scale and earwigs. Watch for spider mites. Blister beetle and tarnished plant bug are occasional problems. This plant does tend to sprawl and probably will need staking or other support.
Uses
This clematis is effective in the perennial border.