Climbing roses and clematis vines are a match made in horticultural heaven. These complementary flowering climbers intertwine beautifully when grown together, creating romantic and dreamy displays in the garden.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best climbing rose and clematis combinations to try in your own outdoor space for maximum impact.
Why Grow Roses and Clematis Together?
Growing roses and clematis together provides multiple benefits
-
Extended flowering season – Clematis and roses have overlapping but not identical bloom times, allowing for months of continuous color when combined. Clematis bloom mentioned 2 times.
-
Layered interest – The contrast of open clematis flowers and larger rose blooms creates visual depth and textural interest, Rose bloom mentioned 1 time
-
Shared support – Both vines appreciate a sturdy trellis, obelisk, wall, or fence to climb up. Support structure mentioned 3 times.
-
Height variety – Lower-growing clematis contrasts nicely with taller climbing rose canes.
-
Mutual protection – The foliage and stems shelter each other from harsh weather elements like rain, wind, and sun
Tips for Successful Combinations
Follow these tips to ensure your rose and clematis pairing thrives:
-
Give them space – Allow at least 3 feet between plants to prevent overcrowding.
-
Pick varieties that get along. For example, choose a clematis and a rose whose colors go well together and whose bloom times overlap.
-
Give them strong support—Give them something strong to climb and weave on, like a trellis.
-
Prune properly – Know the optimal pruning method and time for each vine.
-
Water and fertilize appropriately – Tailor irrigation and nutrition to each plant’s needs.
Gorgeous Color Combinations
Part of the fun is picking clematis and rose varieties that go well together. Consider these captivating color pairings:
-
Pink Clematis with Pink Roses – Clematis ‘Polish Spirit’ + Rose ‘Climbing Claire Austin’, Clematis ‘The President’ + Rose ‘Blushing Lucy’
-
There are two kinds of purple clematis with lavender roses: Clematis “Jackmanii” Rose “Veilchenblau” and Clematis “Etoile Violette” Rose “Purple Tiger.”
-
Red Clematis with Orange Roses – Clematis ‘Niobe’ + Rose ‘Westerland’, Clematis ‘Cardinal Wyszynski’ + Rose ‘Orange Fire’
-
White Clematis with Yellow Roses – Clematis ‘Henryi’ + Rose ‘Golden Showers’, Clematis ‘Marie Boisselot’ + Rose ‘Graham Thomas’
Clever Planting Ideas
Get creative with these climbing rose and clematis pairing ideas:
-
Grow a clematis through a shrub rose for vertical interest.
-
Train both up either side of an archway or arbor entrance.
-
Allow them to mingle on the same fence line.
-
Surround a large climbing rose with lower clematis at the base.
-
Plant clematis at rose bare stems to hide them.
-
For containers, combine a clematis and bush rose in one large pot.
Cascading Color in the Garden
When combined successfully, the blooms of climbing roses and clematis blanket structures in the garden with vibrant, cascading color.
With proper planning, planting, and care, these iconic vines will intertwine in breathtaking harmony. Make your outdoor space magical this season by incorporating this stunning pair into your own garden.
FAQ About Growing Roses and Clematis Together
What’s the best clematis variety to grow with roses?
The C. Jackmanii group varieties like ‘Jackmanii’ and ‘Comtesse de Bouchard’ are ideal, as are Viticella group clematis like ‘Etoile Violette’ and ‘Abundance’. Avoid vigourous montana types.
Should climbing roses and clematis share a trellis?
Absolutely! Climbing roses and clematis happily share trellises, arbors, pergolas and other structures. Just be sure to give them adequate space.
How do you plant clematis with roses?
Plant them at least 3 feet apart in prepared soil with compost worked in. Add fertilizer and irrigate well. Bury clematis stems 2-3 inches deeper than its nursery pot.
What flowers complement clematis and roses?
Salvia, peonies, irises, delphiniums, daisies, and other perennials complement this combo nicely. Annuals like morning glories and nasturtiums also pair well at the vines’ feet.
When should you prune clematis and roses together?
Time pruning for early spring before new growth emerges. Know each vine’s pruning needs. Both require annual pruning but clematis hard, while roses need lighter pruning.
Growing climbing roses and clematis together results in breathtaking vertical displays in the garden. With the right varieties and proper care, these vines will flourish together for years of enjoyment. Try this iconic pairing this season!
What Clematis to Grow with Climbing Roses
Clematis and climbing roses are a match made in gardening heaven. When grown together, they create a stunning visual display of intertwining blooms, offering layers of color, texture, and interest throughout the growing season. If you choose the right type of clematis to go with your climbing roses, they will grow and bloom at the same time and need the same amount of care. Start planning your perfect pair by exploring our Clematis Collection.
Why Pair Clematis with Climbing Roses?
- Longer Bloom Period: Roses and clematis often have bloom periods that overlap or follow each other, which keeps your garden colorful for months.
- Layered Beauty: The small clematis flowers wind through the rose canes, giving your garden more depth and interest.
- Growth Habits That Go Well Together: Both plants are climbers that do well on shared supports like fences, trellises, and pergolas.
Best Clematis Varieties to Pair with Climbing Roses
- Clematis ‘Jackmanii’: This classic type has deep purple flowers that bloom from the middle of summer to the fall. It pairs beautifully with white or pink climbing roses. Height: 10–12 feet. Bloom Group: Group 3 (prune in early spring).
- Clematis ‘Etoile Violette’: This clematis is known for its fast growth and lots of rich purple flowers. It looks stunning with pale or pastel roses. Height: 10–12 feet. Bloom Group: Group 3.
- Clematis montana ‘Rubens’: This clematis grows quickly and has lots of pale pink flowers in late spring. It goes well with climbing roses that bloom early. Height: 20–30 feet. Bloom Group: Group 1 (minimal pruning).
- Clematis “The President”: This clematis has big purple-blue flowers that look great with red or pink roses. Its repeat blooming habit ensures continuous interest. Height: 8–10 feet. Bloom Group: Group 2 (light pruning in spring).
- As the name suggests, Clematis ‘Madame Julia Correvon’ has small, ruby-red flowers that look great with white or cream climbing roses. It blooms profusely from midsummer to fall. Height: 10–15 feet. Bloom Group: Group 3.
Tips for Pairing Clematis with Climbing Roses
- Choose a Clematis with a Growth Rate and Height Similar to Your Climbing Rose This will make sure that the support structure is evenly covered.
- Match Bloom Timing: For the most impact, put clematis and roses together whose bloom times overlap or go well with each other. For example, pair spring-blooming clematis montana with early-flowering roses.
- How to Plant: Place the clematis 12 to 18 inches away from the rose to keep them from competing for nutrients. Point the clematis at the base of the rose so it grows up the canes on its own.
- Use the Same Support: Train both plants to grow on the same arbor, trellis, or pergola. With garden ties, you can get clematis stems through rose canes without making them too crowded.
- Strategic Pruning: Cut back clematis based on its pruning group, and don’t cut any rose canes. Maintain good airflow by spacing the plants evenly.
Perfect Color Combinations
- Purple Clematis: Clematis ‘Jackmanii’ or ‘Etoile Violette’ make a striking contrast.
- Ruby-red clematis and pink roses: For a nice color scheme, pair with Madame Julia Correvon clematis.
- Blue clematis (Clematis “The President”) adds a bold, contrasting touch to the yellow roses.
FAQ: What Clematis to Grow with Climbing Roses?Q: Will clematis damage my climbing rose? A: No, clematis vines are lightweight and won’t harm rose canes. However, ensure the plants are spaced appropriately to prevent overcrowding.
Q: Can I pair multiple clematis with one climbing rose? A: Yes, combining clematis with different bloom times can extend the floral display even further.
Q: Do clematis and climbing roses have similar care needs? A: Yes, both thrive in full sun, require well-draining soil, and benefit from regular fertilizing and pruning.
How do I keep clematis from taking over my rose? A: Guide the stems of the clematis regularly and prune as needed to keep the plant’s growth in check.
For more clematis varieties to pair with climbing roses, visit our Clematis Collection.