Overview

Clematis 'John Paul II' is a climbing, herbaceous climbing perennial in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous, evergreen (varies by species) foliage. Clematis 'John Paul II' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include climbing on trellises, fences and walls; ornamental garden plant.

About

A large-flowered clematis cultivar with deep purple, bell-shaped flowers and prominent yellow stamens, blooming in late summer to autumn.

About the genus

Clematis is a genus of about 380 species within the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Their garden hybrids and cultivars have been popular among gardeners, beginning with Clematis 'Jackmanii', a garden staple since 1862. More cultivars are being produced constantly, mainly of Chinese and Japanese origin.

Wikipedia contributors, "Clematis", CC BY-SA 4.0Clematis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Clematis

Sunlight
full sun, partial shade
Soil type
well-drained, fertile
Soil pH
neutral to slightly alkaline
Soil moisture
moist but well-drained
Aspect
south, east, west
Exposure
sheltered to exposed
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Clematis 'John Paul II' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
climbing perennial
Habit
Climbing, Herbaceous
Foliage
Deciduous, Evergreen (varies by species)
Suggested uses
climbing on trellises, fences, walls; ornamental garden plant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Clematis 'John Paul II'

Cultivation
Plant in spring or autumn; prefers roots shaded and top in sun; mulch to retain moisture.
Pruning
Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood; this is a Group 3 clematis, so prune hard in early spring.
Propagation
propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering
Pest resistance
Slugs, Snails, Aphids, Capsid bugs, Earwigs
Disease resistance
Powdery mildew, Clematis wilt

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Clematis 'John Paul II'?

Plant in spring or autumn; prefers roots shaded and top in sun; mulch to retain moisture.

Where is the best place to plant Clematis 'John Paul II'?

Clematis 'John Paul II' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.

What soil does Clematis 'John Paul II' need?

Clematis 'John Paul II' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Clematis 'John Paul II'?

Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood; this is a Group 3 clematis, so prune hard in early spring.

Is Clematis 'John Paul II' hardy in the UK?

Clematis 'John Paul II' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Clematis 'John Paul II'?

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering.

More in the Clematis genus

Browse all Clematis