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
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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.
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Layered interest – The contrast of open clematis flowers and larger rose blooms creates visual depth and textural interest, Rose bloom mentioned 1 time
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Shared support – Both vines appreciate a sturdy trellis, obelisk, wall, or fence to climb up. Support structure mentioned 3 times.
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Height variety – Lower-growing clematis contrasts nicely with taller climbing rose canes.
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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:
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Give them space – Allow at least 3 feet between plants to prevent overcrowding.
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Choose compatible varieties – Pick a clematis and rose with harmonious colors and overlapping bloom times.
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Provide sturdy support – Give them a robust structure like a trellis to climb and intertwine on.
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Prune properly – Know the optimal pruning method and time for each vine.
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Water and fertilize appropriately – Tailor irrigation and nutrition to each plant’s needs.
Gorgeous Color Combinations
Part of the fun is selecting complementary clematis and rose varieties. Consider these captivating color pairings:
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Pink Clematis with Pink Roses – Clematis ‘Polish Spirit’ + Rose ‘Climbing Claire Austin’, Clematis ‘The President’ + Rose ‘Blushing Lucy’
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Purple Clematis with Lavender Roses – Clematis ‘Jackmanii’ + Rose ‘Veilchenblau’, Clematis ‘Etoile Violette’ + Rose ‘Purple Tiger’
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Red Clematis with Orange Roses – Clematis ‘Niobe’ + Rose ‘Westerland’, Clematis ‘Cardinal Wyszynski’ + Rose ‘Orange Fire’
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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:
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Grow a clematis through a shrub rose for vertical interest.
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Train both up either side of an archway or arbor entrance.
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Allow them to mingle on the same fence line.
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Surround a large climbing rose with lower clematis at the base.
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Plant clematis at rose bare stems to hide them.
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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. Selecting the right clematis variety to pair with your climbing roses ensures compatibility in terms of growth habits, bloom timing, and care requirements. Start planning your perfect pair by exploring our Clematis Collection.
Why Pair Clematis with Climbing Roses?
- Extended Bloom Time: Roses and clematis often have overlapping or successive bloom periods, keeping your garden colorful for months.
- Layered Beauty: The delicate clematis flowers weave through rose canes, adding vertical interest and depth to your garden.
- Complementary Growth Habits: Both plants are climbers and grow well on shared supports like trellises, pergolas, and fences.
Best Clematis Varieties to Pair with Climbing Roses
- Clematis ‘Jackmanii’
- Description: This classic variety features deep purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to 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’
- Description: Known for its vigorous growth and profusion of rich purple blooms, this clematis contrasts strikingly with pale or pastel roses.
- Height: 10–12 feet.
- Bloom Group: Group 3.
- Clematis montana ‘Rubens’
- Description: This fast-growing clematis produces abundant pale pink flowers in late spring, complementing early-blooming climbing roses.
- Height: 20–30 feet.
- Bloom Group: Group 1 (minimal pruning).
- Clematis ‘The President’
- Description: With large, purple-blue blooms, this clematis adds bold color to red or pink roses. Its repeat blooming habit ensures continuous interest.
- Height: 8–10 feet.
- Bloom Group: Group 2 (light pruning in spring).
- Clematis ‘Madame Julia Correvon’
- Description: Featuring small, ruby-red flowers, this clematis harmonizes beautifully 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 Compatible Growth Habits
- Select a clematis with a growth rate and height similar to your climbing rose to ensure balanced coverage of the support structure.
- Match Bloom Timing
- For maximum impact, pair clematis and roses with overlapping or complementary bloom periods. For example, pair spring-blooming clematis montana with early-flowering roses.
- Plant Properly
- Plant clematis 12–18 inches away from the rose to prevent competition for nutrients. Angle the clematis toward the rose base, so it naturally climbs the canes.
- Use a Shared Support
- Train both plants onto the same trellis, arbor, or pergola. Use garden ties to guide clematis stems through rose canes without overcrowding.
- Prune Strategically
- Prune clematis according to its pruning group and avoid cutting rose canes. Maintain good airflow by spacing the plants evenly.
Perfect Color Combinations
- White Roses + Purple Clematis: Clematis ‘Jackmanii’ or ‘Etoile Violette’ provide striking contrast.
- Pink Roses + Ruby-Red Clematis: Pair with Clematis ‘Madame Julia Correvon’ for a harmonious palette.
- Yellow Roses + Blue Clematis: Clematis ‘The President’ adds a bold, complementary touch.
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.
Q: How do I prevent clematis from overtaking my rose? A: Regularly guide clematis stems and prune as needed to maintain a balanced growth pattern.
For more clematis varieties to pair with climbing roses, visit our Clematis Collection.