Virgin's Bower, Clematis virginiana, is a showy native vine that blooms in a flurry of small white flowers in mid-to-late summer. The long vines can extend up to 10 feet and flower for nearly a month. This avid climber will easily twine around a trellis or fence, or tall vegetation and shrubs.
There is an old saying about clematis' growth rate: The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and the third year they leap. Train clematis to climb a trellis, arbor, post, or fence, adding vertical interest.
Cold hardy, easy to grow, and disease resistant, Clematis prefers cool, moist, well-drained soil and full sun to part shade. Good site selection is key. So, remember the adage for success with clematis when planting: feet in the shade, head in the sun. The plant should be placed where the leaves get plenty of sunshine (approx. 6 hours), but the roots are shaded and kept cool, either by low-growing, evergreen shrubs or by heavy mulch. Good drainage is important, and extremely wet locations should be avoided. Protect plants from strong winds but allow good air circulation. Deer resistant.