Clematis durandii

Clematis durandii boasts rich periwinkle blossoms with yellow eyes that nearly obliterate the foliage of this heirloom hybrid from early through late summer. Clematis are prized for their profuse display, but this French hybrid (developed around 1820 and related to the classic C. x jackmanii) is an overachiever, boasting 4-inch blooms that offer weeks of dazzling cut flowers.

Clematis durandii reaches 10 feet tall and blooms all summer. It is considered a nonclinger or nonclimber (unless its vines are tied to a trellis or other structure) due to the fact that its vines aren't strong enough to grow up. They tend to fall over, giving it a form more like a bush. It's great for growing in a container or being allowed to meander among small shrubs. For heaviest flowering, prune back to 12 inches from the ground in early spring.