Growing Blue Light Clematis

One of the most stunning vine growing flowers has to be the 'blue light' clematis. They may not seem like much at first until they start to bloom. Their changing petals make such a contrast from one another as the ones in the center are smaller and curved inward, while the outer ones become large and almost flat.

The dark green leaves grow nearly as large as the outer petals on these flowers. The tender vines can easily be broken if great care is not given to these flowers. Clematis tends to grow well where its vine stems can latch onto something to grow upwards rather than to lay across the ground. This is not something recommended for groundcover.

Chicken wire nailed to a wooden fence will give a substantial growing area for these climbing vines. The 'blue light' variety is almost lavender in color. Their centers are a pale lilac purple. When these flowers are in full bloom, they can reach up to five or six inches in diameter. That is about the size of an average hand.

This climber enjoys growing in full sun and has been known to grow in partial shade as well. You can grow these in large pots with a pole in the center of it or some other device for them to climb upon. Water your clematis well after planting this vine. They only need a weekly watering after this.

Known to grow in zones four through nine, clematis comes in many colors. The more popular colors are purple, blue, red and white. These flowering vines can reach up to six to eight feet in height if not kept pruned back. Not that you need to, but pruning sometimes help in producing more growth.

The avid hummingbird gardener will want to grow 'blue light' clematis as it is an excellent source of nectar for these birds. Butterflies are also a follower of this plant, too. Do not be surprised if you walk out in your yard one day and find thousands of butterflies all over this plant. They will even nest in the thickest growing areas, too.

Clematis is not as intrusive as ivy is when allowed to grow up on the side of a house. Just keep a watchful eye on them so that their vines do not try to creep in under loose trim boards and on up into your attic.

Sources:

Personal Experience,
http://www.gardencrossings.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/plants.plantDetail/plant_id/37/index.htm,
http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/88886/,
http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/clematis/msg0509234312065.html