I think it's a great idea. You may have to occasionaly, once every year or every other depending on the type of vine, clean out the woody stems of the clematis or other vine, but it will add color. I have grown clematis up into to trees with great effect.

jb

Being a major clematis fan, I have them growing through anything that will stay put long enough to support their growth - trees, shrubs, roses, hebes:-) If your intent is to plant to climb through an established rhodie, locate far enough away to avoid the bulk of the fiberous surface roots. Pruning group 3's are perhaps the best for smaller shrubs, as you can cut them back hard each spring to tidy up and keep the vine a bit more compact. These will regrow vigorously and produce a profusion of typically smaller flowers over a long period in summer. 'Betty Corning' would be an excellent choice.

Thank you so much for your input! Do you have pictures you can share?

I love clematis, but I tried growing 2 old my old house with poor results so I haven't tried again. I realize now that they were poorly sited (west side of a concrete portch = hot roots).

I would actually like to grow them several places, up a lamppost, a small trellis, a drainpipe etc but I just visualized getting a ratty thing like I had before.

I'd also love to see pics of Clematis growing in trees and shrubs. I am out of room for trellises and arbors but must have more Clematis!

Books always talk about it but don't show pictures.

I'm thinking of growing 'Bill Mac Kenzie' up my 'Bleriana' purple leaf plum. I think the yellow would go better with the coppery purple leaves than most other Clematis colors.

You might really enjoy the book Gardening with Clematis/ Design and Cultivation by Linda Beutler of Portland. It is from Timber Press 2004. It is full of photos of
clematis growing through everything imaginable with specific recommendations for combinations. Full of good information and inspiration. jwww

I ordered it last week from Amazon. :) Can't wait until it gets here.