Pitcher's Clematis
Clematis pitcheri
Last reviewed: July 2026
Clematis pitcheri is a native climbing vine found across the central United States from Texas to Iowa. This deciduous clematis produces distinctive pitcher-shaped purple flowers from June through August.
Pitcher's Clematis is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
60"–180" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, IA, IL and 10 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pitcher's clematis is a native climbing vine that produces distinctive purple, pitcher-shaped flowers from June through August. This deciduous perennial can reach 5-15 feet in height and spreads 3-8 feet, making it ideal for trellises, arbors, or fences where it can climb and display its unique blooms.
Growing Pitcher's Clematis
Grow Pitcher's Clematis in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 60 to 180 inches tall and spread 36 to 96 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pitcher's Clematis is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Requires sturdy support structure
- Can look bare and untidy in winter
- May appear wild or uncontrolled if not properly managed
Wildlife value
The unusual pitcher-shaped flowers attract bees and hummingbirds during the summer blooming period. As a native clematis, it provides nectar for pollinators and potential nesting material for birds.
Common questions
- Where does Clematis pitcheri naturally grow?
- Clematis pitcheri is native to the central United States, naturally occurring in states including Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, and New Mexico.
- When does Pitcher's Clematis bloom?
- Clematis pitcheri typically blooms from June through August, producing its characteristic pitcher-shaped flowers during the summer months.
- What pollinators visit Clematis pitcheri?
- Pitcher's Clematis attracts both bees and hummingbirds as pollinators. The unique pitcher-shaped flowers are well-suited to these visitors.
- How does Clematis pitcheri grow?
- This plant grows as a climbing vine that can scramble over shrubs and other vegetation. It is deciduous, losing its leaves in winter and returning each spring.
- Is Pitcher's Clematis toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Pitcher's Clematis is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Pitcher's Clematis toxic to cats?
- Yes. Pitcher's Clematis is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Pitcher's Clematis HOA-friendly?
- Pitcher's Clematis is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Pitcher's Clematis and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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