A tremendous amount of breeding has been done recently on Clematis, many of which bloom in rich shades of blue-purple, purple and magenta; with new double-flowered varieties and some with ruffled edges on the petals. The extensive breeding is resulting in longer bloom times and more compact forms popular for today's small space gardens and patio containers. 

Since purple is such a rich, cool color, adding a bright splash with garden vines can enliven the outdoor living space nicely. Growing several different vines with purple flowers extends the bloom time, adding color throughout the garden spring and summer and fall.

Some of the purple flowering vines are native plants, which are more naturally insect resistant, salt tolerant and have natural disease resistance. The most well known native vine that flowers purple is American Wisteria. Some of the factors that make this native plant so useful in the home garden are that it blooms later than the more well-known Asian Wisterias, extending the bloom time. American Wisteria also is more restrained, needing much less pruning and support, making it an overall lower maintenance plant. Even better, American Wisteria will bloom lightly throughout the summer on the new growth. 

Vines can be grown on trellises, fences and pergolas, around patios and decks, under trees, and directly on walls. Most vines grow well with average soil moisture and partial shade, though some can take full shade or full sun giving the home gardener more options for use in the landscape. Interesting new uses are creating excitement by espaliering the vines or growing them in combination with other plants like roses, ornamental shrubs and evergreens already in the home garden

To view learn more about purple flowering vines, please visit Virtual Plant Tags.