A few clematis are completely winter-hardy. The vast majority require winter protection, at least in the first few years. Get to know hardy species and varieties of clematis here. If in doubt, use our tips for successful wintering.
Which clematis are hardy?
The hardy Clematis species include Clematis alpina, Clematis asagene, Clematis viticella and Clematis orientalis. Perennial clematis such as Clematis integrifolia, Clematis jouiniana and Clematis aromatica are also robust and winter-hardy. Protective measures such as garden fleece, piling up and jute wrapping can be helpful for less winter-hardy varieties.
These clematis can withstand the bitter cold
Look for the hardy wild species in search of a hardy clematis. In the harsh climate of forested mountains, these have learned to arm themselves against frosty temperatures. The following selection presents perennial clematis that are as beautiful as they are winter-proof:
- Clematis alpina bloom again in April and sometimes in August; absolutely indestructible and winterproof
- Clematis atagene, as descendants of Clematis alpina, have a stable winter hardiness
- Clematis viticella, the Italian clematis with summer flowering, cannot be disturbed by frost and snow
Don't forget the yellow Clematis orientalis, which bloom from July to October, followed by decorative fruit clusters in autumn and winter. There is no trace of frost sensitivity here anywhere.
Perennial clematis score points with their robust winter hardiness
They occupy a special status within the multifaceted Clematis family. Perennial clematis do not climb, but with a support they still reach a height of 100 centimeters. They display their lavish blooms in almost any location, only to retreat completely during the winter. They sprout again reliably the following spring. The following species and varieties are particularly recommended:
- Clematis integrifolia 'Pastel Blue' with pretty, nodding bell flowers and a flowering period from June to September
- Clematis jouiniana 'Mrs. Robert Brydon' impresses with numerous white flowers from July to October
- Clematis aromatica exudes an intoxicating scent from its dark purple flowers
All perennial clematis are not only extremely winter-hardy, but have established themselves as excellent rose companions.
Tips for wintering
Do you have any doubts about which clematis is growing in your garden? Then take the following precautions so that the flower beauty gets through the cold season well:
- Protect a young or non-hardy clematis from cold and snow with garden fleece
- Hill up the root area with leaf mold (€38.00 at Amazon), bark mulch or straw
- Cover the tendrils on the climbing aid with jute or fleece
If a clematis is considered winter-hardy, this property does not apply to a container plant. In this case, moving to frost-free winter quarters should be considered. Alternatively, wrap the planter thickly in bubble wrap and place it on an insulating surface made of wood or plastic so that the root ball does not freeze.
Tips & Tricks
Don't be alarmed if your clematis for sunny locations, such as Clematis texensis or viorna, freezes back to ground level. Although these summer bloomers appear like a perennial at first glance, they nevertheless thrive as a woody climbing plant and are winter-hardy. If you cut these clematis back to 20 centimeters after flowering or in late winter, they will sprout again next year.
