Those are the seed heads. If you don't want them, you'll have to pick them all off. :)

I think they look pretty!

I like them too, Gil! Of course if it's the same clematis i have - Radar Love - the whole thing looks pretty messy this time of year!

I also like the seed heads. In fact, I was wondering if there was one that produced a different color of flower (purple, red, or pink) that would still produce the fluffy seed heads. Different strokes, I guess. Does anyone know of a different colored one (I don't think the yellow would go with my bleeding heart that it will be near) that still has the fluffs?

I have a dark purple called "Royalty" that makes seed heads. Not as many as my pale blue alpina but it makes some.

There are now a quite a few alpina cultivars in different colors. Most should produce seed heads.

Excellent, thank you. I went ahead and got seed for an alpina. For $2, I can try to start them from seed. If it doesn't work, I'll surely be able to buy a plant later. I like the hardiness of the alpinas - Right now I'm shooting for plants that are likely to stick around. Thank you for your input.

Hah - just went and checked on my Royalty and it's kicked the bucket. Luckily my alpina has produced a youngster nearby. :0)

This might have been a tough winter for some perennials. I haven't seen any sign of life on my texenis 'Dutchess of Albany' but 'Pamela Jackman' is beginning to bud. Haven't noticed anything on 'Blue Light' yet, but i haven't looked all that closely.