purple clematis

Why Grow Purple Clematis?

Purple clematis offer a dazzling palette of shades – from deep velvety purples to lighter mauves and violet blues. Many gardeners choose them for their stunning contrast against brick walls, wooden structures, or bright green foliage. Most varieties are vigorous climbers, quickly covering vertical spaces and offering privacy, or acting as living “walls” full of texture and interest. Plus, their long flowering season means months of colour, especially when planted near other clematis with different bloom times.

Popular Purple Clematis Varieties

Among the many purple clematis available in New Zealand, a few stand out for their exceptional garden performance and striking flowers:

• Clematis jackmanii Superba: A garden classic, with deep purple blooms throughout summer and autumn, this robust choice is perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
• Clematis 'Honora': Boasting vibrant, velvety dark purple flowers on strong, healthy vines, ‘Honora’ makes a bold statement on trellises or winding through shrubs.
• Clematis 'Sweet Heart': A more compact option, ‘Sweet Heart’ charms with its large, purple-mauve blooms that appear reliably from early summer.
• Clematis 'Vagabond': This variety impresses with its uniquely ruffled petals and striking purple tones, ideal for creating a focal point in the garden.
• Clematis 'Arabella': A non-clinging type, 'Arabella' is perfect for pots or running through other plants, boasting abundant, dusky purple flowers for months.

Planting and Care Tips

To get the best from your purple clematis, plant in a sunny or lightly shaded spot with rich, free-draining soil. Clematis love to have their “heads in the sun, feet in the shade” – so mulch well or plant low-growing companions around the base. Water regularly through dry spells, and feed with a balanced fertiliser each spring. Most purple clematis types benefit from a prune in late winter or early spring, encouraging strong growth and prolific flowering.

Creative Uses for Purple Clematis

Purple clematis are natural climbers but can also be grown as flowering groundcovers, trained over obelisks in containers, or even allowed to spill gracefully over a low wall. Combine them with white or pale pink roses for an eye-catching contrast, or pair several clematis varieties together for a tapestry of colours that evolves across the seasons.

No matter your garden style, a purple clematis is sure to provide months of enjoyment and endless compliments. Explore our full range, including Clematis jackmanii Superba, Clematis 'Honora', Clematis 'Sweet Heart', Clematis 'Vagabond', and Clematis 'Arabella', to find the perfect purple clematis for your space.