Purple Clematis
Clematis occidentalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Purple Clematis is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (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
36"–120" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CO, CT, DE, IA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Purple clematis is a native climbing vine that produces attractive purple flowers from May through July. It grows 3-10 feet tall and requires some support structure like a trellis, fence, or arbor to climb effectively.
In an HOA neighborhood
Purple Clematis is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.
- Requires support structure like trellis or fence
- Can look bare in winter as deciduous vine
- May appear unruly without regular pruning
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and butterflies during the extended blooming period. This native clematis provides nectar for pollinators when many other spring flowers have finished.
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 Purple Clematis and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.