Clematis 'Bridgewater'
Clematis 'Bridgewater' is a large flowering clematis with rich purple blooms that appear in early to midsummer and often rebloom later in the season. Its climbing habit makes it ideal for trellises, fences, and vertical garden features while bringing strong color and vertical movement to sunny garden spaces.
Height & Spread: 8 - 10 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer with potential rebloom
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist well drained fertile soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant
Native Status
This clematis is a cultivated hybrid selected for ornamental flower size, color intensity, and repeat blooming performance rather than a native species selection.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Hummingbirds
- Attracted to the tubular flower structure and rich nectar supply during peak bloom periods.
Butterflies
- Draws in a variety of butterflies including Swallowtails and Painted Ladies which feed on the open blooms.
Bees
- Visited frequently by native bees and bumblebees which collect nectar from the large open flowers.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow vines adequate room to establish and climb freely.
Landscape Placement
- Best used on trellises, fences, pergolas, or garden structures where its vertical growth habit and showy blooms can be fully displayed.
Companion Plants
- Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' (Feather Reed Grass) - Provides upright vertical contrast and structured movement alongside the climbing vine.
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' (Lavender) - Adds fragrant low growing contrast that softens the base of taller plantings.
- Hydrangea petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea) - Extends vertical interest with large textured foliage and seasonal blooms on nearby structures.
- Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (Catmint) - Creates a soft flowing ground layer that contrasts with the strong vertical habit.
- Rosa 'New Dawn' (Climbing Rose) - Pairs well on structures with layered vertical bloom interest and extended seasonal color.