To highlight the University of Minnesota College colors of maroon and gold, our Pergola
Garden is home to 2 different varieties of clematis (Niobe and Virgin’s Bower).

To fill in the raised beds that line the pergola walkway, different varieties of annual
flowers in maroon and gold are added every year.

CLEMATIS INFORMATION
The word clematis comes from the ancient Greek word for climbing vine and is a genus of
more than 300 species within the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. They are mainly of
Japan and China origin.

The Niobe has very dark maroon pointed petals with gold anthers and blooms in June,
August and September.

The second variety is a Minnesota native called Clematis Virginiana (Virgin’s Bower). The
vines can grow up to 20 feet, producing abundant clusters of small white flowers in
midsummer and lights up the fall landscape with silky, feather-like seed heads.

PLANT CARE: Most clematis varieties need at least 6 hours of full sun, but the Virgin
Bower does well in part-shade to shade as well. However, all clematis likes their roots
shaded and cool. Planting low-growing ground cover plants at the base of clematis can
provide relief on the roots. Once the clematis is planted, they do not like to be disturbed
so plant them in a place where they can stay put and grow to their full potential.

PRUNING: Clematises belong to one of three groups, based on flower size and bloom time.
Group 1: Flowers appear in early to mid-spring on last year’s growth. This group does not
require pruning, other than to occasionally remove tangled growth. The Niobe falls within
this pruning group.
Group 2: Double and semi double flowers may bloom twice: in May/June on last year’s
wood, and later in the year on new shoots. Prune after spring flowers fade. Remove dead
wood in late winter.
Group 3: Large showy blooms should be pruned in summer and autumn on current year’s
growth. Prune severely in late winter/early spring, leaving two pairs of buds on each
stem. The Virgin’s Bower falls within this pruning group.

PESTS/DISEASES: The most serious disease of clematis is commonly called clematis
wilt. It is a fungal stem rot/leaf spot disease which is more susceptible to 1st year plants
that are establishing their vines.

Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clematis
https://www.scottarboretum.org/clematis-wilt/