Clematis alpina 'Constance'

Constance Alpine Clematis

Clematis alpina ‘Constance’ is an early-flowering clematis prized for its soft rose-pink, nodding bell-shaped flowers that appear in spring—often weeks before large-flowered types begin. Its graceful habit and delicate blooms make it ideal for naturalistic gardens, trellises, and light supports.


Plant Profile
Type: Deciduous flowering vine

Mature Size:



Width: 3–5 ft



Height: 6–10 ft



Bloom:



Small to medium bell-shaped flowers



Soft rose-pink with paler inner tones



Early spring to mid-spring



Foliage: Medium green; fresh and airy texture

Zones: 4a–9b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (excellent for lighter shade conditions)
Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; adaptable
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Pruning Group: Group 1 (blooms on old wood)


Features & Uses


Form: Light, twining climber with a relaxed, natural habit



Excellent for trellises, fences, shrubs, and woodland edges



Early spring bloom provides color when few other vines are flowering



Attractive fluffy seed heads extend interest into summer



Cold hardy and low maintenance




Care Notes


Minimal pruning; prune only after flowering if shaping is needed



Avoid hard pruning to preserve spring blooms



Mulch roots to maintain even soil moisture

Plant type

Vine

Height

10'

Width

2'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees butterflies birds

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Trellis

Shape

Climbing

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No