Clematis 'Stand by Me'

Plant Description

This non-vining clematis has masses of blue/violet bell shaped flowers each individually displayed on stout stems from late spring through mid summer. After it’s finished blooming, attractive, fluffy, silvery-creamy seed heads appear. You can shear back plants after flowering and it may rebloom. Give this clematis full sun and good soil that is NOT acidic. It appreciates some shade over its roots so be sure to plant so that this happens. As this is not a climbing or vining clematis, either support it with stakes or cages, or neighboring plants. In late fall, it will die back completely to the ground so pruning is never needed. Stand by Me is a Proven Winners selection.

Two things to know when planting clematis: it is important to plant them 3" deeper than the original soil level in the pot. Bury the first set of leaves to encourage the production of strong shoots from below soil level. The second thing is that clematis roots like to be cool. They appreciate some shade. Do this by planting something nearby that will cast shade around the clematis base or maybe laying some light colored flat rocks nearby. Stand by Me is not difficult to grow and would look great with pink, white, or yellow flowers especially in early summer. Take your pick. Available for shipping after April 22.

 Photos courtesy of Walter's Gardens