Rock Clematis

Rock Clematis (*Clematis columbiana* var. *tenuiloba*) is a native North American clematis with a scrambling growth habit. It can be allowed to spread as a loose groundcover or given a small support to climb through nearby plants. ## Flower and landscape use University of Idaho’s rock clematis profile describes blue-violet to lavender nodding flowers and silky seed heads, while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service confirms the exact variety name. Flower color and vine length vary across the broader species, so the size of this variety is not fixed here. ## Growing conditions The regional profile recommends full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with some organic matter. It reports that established plants tolerate moderate drought, though summer moisture helps the foliage and flowering remain attractive. Provide water during establishment and protect young transplants from drying wind and sun until new growth appears. ## Maintenance Occasional pruning can shape or train the vine; otherwise, the regional guide describes minimal maintenance and occasional deep watering. [U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service taxon profile](https://www.fws.gov/species/rock-clematis-clematis-columbiana-var-tenuiloba); [USDA GRIN taxonomy](https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/taxon/taxonomydetail?id=462496); [University of Idaho / University of Wyoming Extension landscape profile](https://cwelwnp.usu.edu/westernnativeplants/plantlist_view.php?id=55&name=clematiscolumbiana).