Tube Clematis Clematis heracleifolia

Water

Clematis heracleifolia, commonly known as Tube Clematis, requires moderate watering to maintain its health. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as this plant prefers well-drained conditions. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water the Tube Clematis with approximately one gallon per week, adjusting for rainfall. As the plant establishes itself, you can reduce watering frequency, but during dry spells, make sure to water deeply to encourage healthy root development. Over winter, reduce watering but do not allow the soil to dry out completely.

Light

Tube Clematis thrives in a position with partial shade to full sun. The ideal spot for this plant would be where it receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, as intense heat can be detrimental. Ensure this clematis has ample light for several hours a day to promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

Temperature

Tube Clematis performs well in a wide range of temperatures but prefers a moderate climate. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature conditions for this clematis are between 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, where it can grow and flower optimally.

Pruning

Pruning Tube Clematis is essential to encourage strong growth and flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring when the plant is still dormant, cutting back the previous year's stems to a pair of strong buds about 1 to 2 feet above the ground. This timing allows the plant to focus on producing robust new growth which will flower in the coming season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Tube clematis thrives in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline. The best soil mix can be achieved by combining two parts loam, one part peat or compost, and one part sharp sand or grit. This formula ensures good drainage and fertility, suitable for the vigorous growth of tube clematis.

Repotting

Tube clematis typically requires repotting every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate its growing root system. The best time to repot is in early spring before the growing season begins.

Humidity & Misting

Tube clematis prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity conditions. Consistent humidity is beneficial but not critical for the plant's health, as long as it is not exposed to overly dry air for prolonged periods.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Plant in large container with support for climbing; bright, indirect light.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny or semi-shaded spot with support to climb; mulch roots.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis heracleifolia, commonly known as tube clematis, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring under suitable temperature and moisture conditions. Upon germination, it develops a root system and sprouts stems and leaves, employing its climbing habit to grow towards the light through nearby support structures or vegetation. During its growing season, tube clematis produces fragrant, blue or purple, tubular flowers from late summer to early fall, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies which aid in its reproduction. Following pollination, the plant forms seed heads that appear fluffy due to their long-plumed styles, which can be dispersed by wind or animals, thus completing the cycle of seed distribution. In preparation for winter, the plant enters a period of dormancy, where above-ground growth dies back, while the root system remains alive to sprout new growth the following spring. Over the years, Clematis heracleifolia can become a large, woody, perennial vine, with some specimens reaching significant sizes, and continuing to flower annually.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer-early fall

• Propogation: Clematis heracleifolia, commonly known as tube clematis, is often propagated through softwood cuttings. This method is most effectively carried out in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and the new stems are long enough but still green and supple. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long, with several leaves left at the top and the lower leaves removed. Dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone can enhance the chances of successful rooting. The cuttings should then be planted in a mixture of sand and peat, or a well-draining potting mix, and kept moist but not waterlogged. Covering them with a plastic bag or placing them in a propagator can help maintain humidity, which is crucial for the development of roots. After a few weeks, when the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots and eventually moved outdoors once they have established a robust root system.