Rock Clematis
Clematis columbiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rock 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
12"–120" H × 24"–96" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Rock clematis is a climbing perennial vine that produces delicate purple or blue flowers from May through July. This plant can reach up to 10 feet tall and spreads 2 to 8 feet wide, making it excellent for covering fences, trellises, or arbors.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rock 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 sparse or messy without proper training
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the summer blooming period. The vine provides nesting habitat and shelter for small birds.
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 Rock Clematis and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.