John Paul II Clematis

John Paul II is a large-flowered clematis with creamy-white sepals marked by a pale pink stripe, which becomes stronger in the later flowering flush. Dark red anthers add contrast at the center. The vine grows about 8–12 feet tall and can cover a trellis, fence, or pergola while leaving its base shaded. ## Flowers and placement The Polish clematis encyclopedia lists the selection under its registered Polish name, Jan Paweł II, and describes 13 cm flowers, 3–4 m growth, and blooms from June through September. [Hinsdale Nurseries](https://hinsdalenurseries.com/products/john-paul-ii-clematis/) notes a smaller second flush and a 2–3 ft spread; [Brushwood Nursery](https://www.brushwoodnursery.com/products/clematis-john-paul-ii) lists zones 4–11. ## Maintenance This is a pruning group 2 clematis: make only light shaping cuts and prune after the first flowering if needed. Plant it in fertile, moist but well-drained soil, with the roots cool and shaded and the upper vine in sun or partial shade.