I have staked many prostrate cultivars to grow vertical and have been successful.

Pick out a strong leader and give it a try.

Dave

A question that I hope doe snot come off as catty; I am honestly curious:

Why stake a procumbens to grow upright rather than just planting an upright plant? Is it the form achieved that is desireable?

A late answer, but yes. A plant with prostrate form that can be trained vertically for a time then has height from which to drape in liew of sending it over rocks and such. It can also allow for a choice that might take more horizontal space than you have to give if not grown in this manner.

I live in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Where can I buy it?

who knows emily.. the hunt is half the game ... and frankly ... often you simply cant find what you want.. so you start looking for look alikes .. that accomplish the same goal ... if you want to discuss options.. i suggest a new post of your own .... and the first question might be.. if it will live where you are??

the only source i know in Ca is this:

http://www.whistlinggardens.ca/

as to the old question why do it .... because everyone else is doing it the other way ...

visitors to my collection are rarely interested in the same old.. same old ...

but something that got damaged and is doing something bizarre ... they all run to it.. because it is so unique ... so out of the ordinary ...

ken