Clematis texensis is a wild species with bright red flowers that is native to several counties in Texas. It is unfortunately very difficult to propagate the species, but since the late 1800's breeders have been successful making many interspecific hybrids with small, brightly colored, tulip-shaped flowers that are great garden plants. 'Gravetye Beauty' has open, star-shaped 3" rich ruby-red flowers. Bloom time is mid-summer and vines can get 8 to 12 feet long. It is easy to grow in full sun or light shade and good soil. Blooms form on the current/new growth so plants should be pruned in late winter or early spring to two strong sets of buds on each stem.

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