Clematis viticella aka Purple Clematis

Clematis viticella, or Italian clematis, belongs to the buttercup family. Its native range runs from southeastern Europe to western Syria and northern Iran. This perennial vine has partly woody stems and sheds its leaves. It grows fast and climbs, trails, or spreads along the ground. Garden plants reach about 10–15 feet [3–4.6 metres] tall. RHS also describes plants reaching 16 feet [5 metres]. The spread is about 3–5 feet [0.9–1.5 metres]. Plants take two to five years to reach full size.

The green leaves are compound, with separate leaflets along each leaf. Some leaflets have two or three lobes. Sources differ on leaf arrangement and the presence of hairs. Open, bell-shaped flowers appear in summer and early autumn. They grow on stems made during the same year. Purple or violet-blue tepals surround pale yellow anthers. Flowers span about 1.6–3 inches [0.04–0.08 metres] across. Small, dry fruits called achenes follow the flowers. Each fruit has a fine, feathery tail. These form showy seed heads after the blooms fade. Bees visit the flowers.

Grow this vine in sun or partial shade. Keep its roots and stem base cool and shaded. Nearby plants or pebbles can shade the base. It needs moist soil that lets excess water drain away. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and chalk garden soils. Neutral to alkaline soil suits it best. Set the root ball 2–3 inches [0.05–0.08 metres] below ground. This helps new shoots grow from below the soil. NCSU lists USDA zones 4–8; RHS rates it H6. Cut it back hard in late winter or early spring. Leave about 1 foot [0.3 metres] of growth.

Train the stems along fences, arbors, or walls for cover. They can also trail from patio pots or cover ground. The vine suits cottage gardens, courtyards, and borders near walls. NCSU rates its upkeep as low and notes deer resistance. Grow new plants from stem cuttings or by layering. Use softwood cuttings in spring or partly firm cuttings in early summer.

Aphids may feed on new growth. Slugs, snails, and voles can harm roots, shoots, or stems. Powdery mildew, slime flux, and rare honey fungus are possible problems. NCSU reports strong wilt resistance, though RHS still lists wilt risk. All parts are poisonous, so this is not a food plant. Eating it can cause mouth pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact can irritate skin; wear gloves when handling it. It can also harm pets, including cats, dogs, and rabbits.