| I have also read that viticella varieties are some of the most heat tolerant types. I came across this online photo the other day that shows the straight viticella species growing on an arch - it might give you an idea of whether you like this look. There are many viticella hybrids available in multiple colors with larger, more open faced flowers as well. |
Here is a link that might be useful: photo of clematis viticella on arch
| Here is an online article on the viticella type of clematis. Unfortunately, the link doesn't take you directly to the article. First click on the 4th tab on the top bar that says "Vines in the Garden". Under that will be displayed a list of articles - click on "Clematis Viticella Group". You might also be interested in another article in the list titled "Clematis in hot climates" and written by someone who grew clematis in Atlanta (hot and humid). One of the first clematis I ever grew was the texensis hybrid "Duchess of Albany". I grew it in zone 8a in the Dallas, TX area in full, all day sun. It was surrounded by grass only so it didn't have to deal with reflected heat from a building or pavement. It did get some brown lower leaves, but it flowered very well, getting bigger every year. It's flowers face more upward, so it might not be as pretty for an overhead arbor. Hummingbird Farm's website says this about the texensis hybrids: "Give them a light, even gravelly, soil and full sun". |
Here is a link that might be useful: article on clematis viticella
