Clematis Konigskind ‘Climador’

Container gardening continues to be a hot trend, and more perennial plants are being bred to grow well in these small spaces. One of the best new clematis to grow in containers is Clematis Konigskind ‘Climador’. This perennial has 5-inch-diameter, purple-blue, ruffled flowers that bloom for up to four months on vines that only grow 4 to 5 feet long. This clematis is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9, although the container should be protected over the winter in cold areas. ‘Climador’ should be pruned in early spring to about 1 foot tall for best growth and flowering. There is also a rose-pink flowering version named Clematis Rose Konigskind.

Another clematis suitable for containers is the small, bell-shaped, violet-colored Clematis integrifolia ‘Fascination’. This rambling vine also only grows 4 to 5 feet long. It’s perfect for container culture or training to ramble through a shrub or rose bush. It likes moderately wet roots, plenty of sun, and an annual spring pruning to about 1 foot tall.

‘Climador’ is available through nurseries such as Park Seed Company (www.parkseed.com), and ‘Fascination’ is available through nurseries such as White Flower Farm (www.whiteflowerfarm.com).