Types of Clematis Plants

Clematis Integrifolia

• The Clematis integrifolia is an erect, non-climbing plant that produces dense, sprawling stems. Flowers are bell-shaped, violet or blue in color and hang downward. Seed heads are feather-like and silvery in color. Common problems for the Clematis integrifolia include powder-like mildew, fungal spots, cankers on the stems and insects, including earwigs, white flies and aphids.

Clematis Fremontii

• Also non-climbing is the Clematis fremontii, a shrub-like plant named after John C. Fremont who discovered it. The plant is often called "Fremont's leather flower." Native to Missouri, the Clematis fremontii grows on limestone glades and is also found in limestone prairies in both Nebraska and Kansas. Like the Clematis intergrifolia, the plant has an erect stem. Leaves are broad and green, and as it ages, the plant produces dense foliage and purple to white bell-shaped flowers. No serious insect or disease issues are associated with the Clematis fremontii.

Clematis fruitcosa

• A closely branched shrub native to China and Mongolia, the Clematis fruitcosa, also known as "Mongolian Gold," reaches heights of up to 4 feet. Mongolian Gold bears yellow clustered flowers, and its leaves are shiny and dark green. Although no insect problems are associated with the plant, it is susceptible to mildew, stem rot and wilting.

Clematis Heracleifolia

• Shrubby like the Clematis fremontii, the Clematis heracleifolia bears tube-like flowers and interesting seed heads. Leafy mounds are formed over time, and in the summer, its flowers are small, blue and fragrant. Blossoming flowers grow together in groups, and seed heads are fluffy. Staking may be needed because the plant grows in various directions; its large leaves may be eaten by certain insects.

Clematis Hexapetala

• The Clematis hexapetala, also known as "Mongolian Snowflakes," reaches up to 3 feet in height. The plant produces dark green leaves and flowers in the spring. Its flowers are fragrant, white and about an inch long; its seed heads are silver in color and feather-like. Clematis hexapetala is drought-tolerant, which makes it a low-maintenance, easy-to-grow plant.