The only way I would attempt to grow a clematis inside is if I had a heated greenhouse or conservatory so it would in essence be inside with the amount of light normally available outside but warm temps during the winter. Not sure if your greenhouse is heated or if the exposure in your zone 4 MN during the winter would keep the greenhouse warm enough during the winter to actually keep the plant actively growing.

It is in fact heated, though I keep it on the cool side (about 55° average) -- it gets plenty of light, enough that hibiscus and a big thunbergia grandiflora bloom well. So the idea would be temps above freezing, warm enough to keep the clematis actively growing without a dormant period? I might have the conditions for success. Thanks, nckvilledudes GaryStPaul

Gary, if you keep it at 55 degrees, I would think that should be enough to have the plant do well and even perhaps even keep it actively growing. Clematis don't seem to have an issue growing at those temps around here in the spring. :)

I have never heard or seen anything written specifically about clematis needing a dormant period but it might be interesting if someone growing clematis in those zones where it never gets below freezing (like in Southern California, Florida, etc.) would chime in here about their experience with clematis in those zones during their "cooler" periods. Of course, their clematis might very well go dormant during their "hotter" periods. I know mine seem to stop growing when it gets into the hotter parts of our summers.

For those who might be interested in growing Bijou indoors, here's some more information. GaryStPaul

Here is a link that might be useful: More on Wayside clematis

Very cool. I might have to get one.