Jenkins’ Seed Packets: Vasevine

Vasevine (Clematis viorna)

Vasevine is a native perennial vine that will elegantly climb trellises and fences. In the spring and summer, this plant features bell-shaped, pink and purple flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees. Its blooms mature to unique, feathery seed heads, providing multi-seasonal interest. 

Natural Habitat: Forest edges, streambanks
Light Requirements: Part shade
Soil Requirements: Moist
USDA Hardiness: Zones 3-8
Size: Height of 10′ to 12′
Wildlife Value: Pollinators, hummingbirds
Deer Resistance: Resistant

Germination Requirements

Here are Jenkins we soak our Vasevine seeds in water for 24 hours and then sow them. We provide 30 days of warm moist stratification followed by 60 days of cold moist stratification (abbreviated WMS and CMS in many reference guides). Stratification is the process of pre-treating seeds to overcome the seeds’ natural inhibitors that prevent germination in less-than ideal circumstances. Cover the seeds lightly when you sow them. A general rule is to cover seeds to a depth equal to their height.

WMS can be accomplished by setting the sown seeds on top of a heat mat or an appliance such as a refrigerator. Your goal is to keep the soil at 70 degrees for 30 days. The seed tray is then set outside when temperatures are consistently below 40 degrees to complete the CMS. Seeds can always be kept cold longer than the required number of days. They will germinate when the soil warms up in spring.

Alternately, you can mix the seeds with a small amount of moist (not wet) sand, perlite or vermiculite in a baggie and place it in a warm location for 30 days and then into the refrigerator for 60 days. If you choose to hold them there longer than 60 days, check the seeds periodically. Some seeds will germinate in the baggie. You will see the first root, the radicle, poking out. This is fine if you catch it early. After chilling the seeds for 60 days, sow them by spreading out the contents of the baggie on the surface of your medium.