Overview
Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include climber and wall shrubs, patio and container plants, flower borders and beds and wall side borders.
About
Clematis recta 'Purpurea', known as purple ground clematis, is a bushy herbaceous perennial within the Clematis genus of the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. It grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 metres with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, reaching full height in 2 to 5 years. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun and prefers sheltered positions with moist but well-drained soil, tolerating a range of soil types and pH levels. It is of interest through summer, autumn, and winter, making it a versatile addition to gardens.
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 4.0 — Clematis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clematis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Climber and wall shrubs, Patio and container plants, Flower borders and beds, Wall side borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F)
- Propagation
- Layering, Semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Snails, Caterpillars, Earwigs
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus, Clematis wilt, Clematis slime flux
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F)?
Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) need?
Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) grow?
Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) hardy in the UK?
Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F) has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Clematis recta 'Purpurea' (F)?
Layering, Semi-hardwood cuttings.
More in the Clematis genus
- Clematis 'Fukuzono' (I)

- Clematis douglasiiChaparral Clematis

- Clematis stans

- Clematis × eriostemonClematis

- Clematis × jouiniana

- Clematis 'Edward Prichard'clematis 'Edward Prichard'
- Clematis 'Fairydust' (Vt)
- Clematis 'Herbert Johnson' (EL)