Blue Boy Clematis vs Showy Aster - TreeTime.ca

Blue Boy Clematis vs Showy Aster

Clematis integrifolia Blue Boy

Eurybia conspicua

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Blue Boy Clematis
Showy Aster

Blue Boy Clematis is a cold-hardy, fast growing, woody climbing vine. Hundreds of stunning steel-blue bell shaped flowers adorn the vine throughout the summer that droop and appear to hang in the air. The fibrous stems spread and create a fan-like symmetry shape.

This species will do best with support from a trellis, fence, or even other shrubs or tree stumps.

The Blue Boy Clematis was developed in Manitoba, Canada in 1947 by famous breeder Frank L. Skinner by crossing C. integrifolia x C. viticella, but it didn’t gain popularity until the 1990’s.

Showy Aster is a native perennial wildflower recognized for its tall stems topped with clusters of light purple blooms. Blooming from late summer into autumn, it provides an important late-season source of nectar and pollen for pollinators. It also produces seeds that are eaten by birds, extending its value to wildlife beyond the flowering season.

Drought tolerant once established, Showy Aster grows well in urban, rural, and disturbed sites. With its mix of ecological value and ornamental appeal, it is ideal for pollinator gardens, naturalization projects, and ecological restoration.

Blue Boy Clematis Quick Facts

Showy Aster Quick Facts

Zone: 2b
Zone: 2b
Height: 3 m (10 ft)
Height: 0.6 m (2.0 ft)
Spread: 0.6 m (2.0 ft)
Spread: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: any
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: medium
Life span: short
Growth form: upright, colony-forming
Spreading: rhizomes - medium, seeds - medium
Suckering: medium


Flowers: steel blue
Flowers: purple-blue, with yellow centers
Bloom time: late summer to early fall
Hybrid: yes
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB
Other Names: western showy aster