Climbing Flowers for Arbors

Clematis

• Clematis is related to the buttercup and is a member of the Ranunculaceae family. It is an ornamental, perennial climbing vine. The branches of the clematis vine are woody and are comprised of medium to dark-green foliage, and are particularly admired for their showy, bold-colored blooms---of which there are plenty. The flowers of this vine have six sepals that surround a large yellow center. The sepals come in an array of colors, including white, yellow, deep red and deep purple. In order to successfully grow clematis, you will need to place them where they can get full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.

Climbing Hydrangea

• This perennial deciduous vine is part of the Hydrangeaceae family. Unlike its more commonly known counterpart that produces large, showy blooms, this vine produces cream-colored flat, lace-like blooms that are made up of larger sterile flowers that surround smaller fertile flowers. The leaves of the plant are dark green and glossy. It is best to plant the climbing hydrangea in a shaded area and in soil that is moist and drains well. It will climb any structure it is planted next to, making it an ideal choice to plant next to an arbor. It can reach heights in excess of 80 feet if it is given the room to do so.

Wisteria

• A member of the Fabaceae family, wisteria is another deciduous climbing vine. The plant climbs by locking its stems around a structure and winding in a clockwise or counterclockwise fashion. The stems produce green leaves coupled with clusters of dangling lavender flowers that resemble peas or grapes. The flowers are very fragrant. While wisteria will tolerate drought and periods of excessive rain, it prefers well-drained sandy or clay soils. Full sun, partial sun or full shade are all acceptable lighting for the vine. It can grow larger than 30 feet and is rather heavy, so it is best to plant it next to a sturdy arbor.