Stand by Me Bush Clematis

'Stand by Me' is a non-vining herbaceous clematis that forms an upright clump of green leaves and nodding blue bells. It grows about 34–38 inches tall with a 24–36 inch spread, fitting a perennial border or container. [Proven Winners profile](https://c5.provenwinners.com/plants/clematis/stand-me-bush-clematis-clematis-hybrid) ## Seasonal Interest Blue flowers appear from late spring through summer, followed by fine seed heads. The plant dies back to the ground at the end of the growing season and returns from its crown. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers; the breeder also lists resistance to deer and rabbits. [Proven Winners profile](https://c5.provenwinners.com/plants/clematis/stand-me-bush-clematis-clematis-hybrid) ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun or light shade in average, well-drained soil. Keep the base and roots shaded and the soil moist with mulch. The listed hardiness range is USDA zones 3a–7b. Upright stems may benefit from a cage, light staking, or support from nearby plants. [Proven Winners profile](https://c5.provenwinners.com/plants/clematis/stand-me-bush-clematis-clematis-hybrid) ## Maintenance Each spring, cut old stems back to about 3–4 inches tall. Fresh shoots emerge from the crown beneath the soil. [Proven Winners profile](https://c5.provenwinners.com/plants/clematis/stand-me-bush-clematis-clematis-hybrid)