Purple Clematis

Clematis pitcheri Common names include Purple Leatherflower, Purple Leather Flower, Bluebill, Blue Bill, Pitcher's Clematis, Bellflower Clematis, Bell Flower Clematis Purple Clematis is an herbaceous perennial climbing vine that attaches itself by twining petioles. It may also spread along the ground if there is nothing to climb. Its leaves are opposite each other on the vine. Its purple nodding flowers are a bell shape, and are quite long lasting. Bumblebees in particular are attracted to them. Once the flowers go to seed, the seeds will have fluffy tails that radiate outwards, and birds will feast on them. These seedheads can persist into winter. The lower stems sometimes appreciate a bit of support like being gently tied to a trellis, or whatever they may be climbing up. The plant may die to the ground in late fall or winter, but will reemerge in the spring. It can tolerate limestone-based, sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It appreciates full sun or part shade, and is fairly heat and drought tolerant. It performs best in the ground versus a pot due to its roots preferring cooler to medium temperatures. Height: 10'-13' Spread: 2'-3' Bloom: May-September Light: Full Sun-Part Shade Water: Medium Zone: 5-9 Origin: Texas, southern and central U.S., northern Mexico Synonyms: Berlandiera betonicifolia, Berlandiera texana var. betonicifolia