How to Grow Clematis Nelly Moser
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Clematis Nelly Moser
Clematis × jackmanii 'Nelly Moser'
vineClematis 'Nelly Moser' is a stunning deciduous flowering vine prized for its large, showy pink flowers with deeper pink or magenta stripes and white centers. It blooms profusely in late spring and again in late summer, making it a spectacular choice for trellises, arbors, and fences. This vigorous cultivar is one of the most popular clematis varieties due to its reliable flowering and relatively easy care.
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Example Clematis Nelly Moser timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Clematis Nelly Moser
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Clematis Nelly Moser
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9, hardy in zone 3b with winter protection
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Establishment
First growing season (3-4 months)Young vines with sparse foliage and thin stems; slow initial growth as roots establish
Water regularly and maintain consistent moisture. Install support structure. Mulch heavily around base. Keep top 2-3 feet protected during year one. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early summer (3-4 months)Vigorous vine growth with increasing stem length and leaf density; stems become woody
Tie or guide stems to support structure. Remove weak or damaged growth. Pinch back tips to encourage branching. Continue consistent watering and monthly feeding through growing season.
Primary Flowering
Late spring (May-June in northern zones, April-May in southern)Large 4-6 inch flowers appear on previous year's wood; pink with magenta stripes and white centers
Do not prune during flowering. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued bloom. Water consistently. Enjoy the show—this is why you planted it!
Summer Rest & Regrowth
Mid-summer (6-8 weeks)Foliage-focused period after first bloom flush; new growth emerges for reblooming
After primary bloom ends, cut back flowering shoots to strong buds or leaf nodes. This encourages repeat flowering. Maintain water and feeding schedule. Deadhead any remaining flowers.
Secondary Flowering & Dormancy
Late summer through fall (2-3 months)Second, lighter flush of flowers appears on new growth; foliage gradually yellows and drops
Enjoy the second bloom. In fall, reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Leave seed heads for winter interest if desired. After first frost, cut back dead growth to buds or strong nodes; do not cut too severely.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Plant crown 1-2 inches below soil to promote regrowth from roots if above-ground stems wilt. Remove affected stems immediately and disinfect pruners. Avoid overhead watering. Improve air circulation through pruning.
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increase humidity with regular misting. Ensure adequate water supply as drought stress worsens infestations.
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Improve air circulation by pruning. Spray with sulfur fungicide or baking soda solution (1 tbsp per gallon water). Water at base, not foliage. Remove affected leaves.
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Hand-pick in early morning. Use copper barriers or tape around support structure. Apply slug baits or diatomaceous earth. Remove hiding spots like dense mulch near base.
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Use yellow sticky traps to monitor. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Vacuum small populations with handheld devices. Encourage natural predators.
Uses
Ornamental Garden Screening & Privacy
HouseholdTrain Nelly Moser on trellises, arbors, fences, and pergolas to create stunning vertical interest and natural privacy screens. The abundant pink striped flowers provide continuous visual appeal from late spring through fall. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
HouseholdThe large, showy blooms make excellent additions to flower arrangements and can last 5-7 days in water. Cut stems in early morning when flowers are partially open. [source]
Pollinator Support & Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe numerous flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden. Dense foliage provides shelter for birds and beneficial insects throughout the growing season. [source]
Seed Head Ornament & Winter Interest
CraftAfter flowering, clematis produces distinctive feathery seed heads (achenes) that persist through winter, providing architectural interest and wildlife food. These can be left on the plant for seasonal decoration. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalWhile not commonly used, some traditional herbalism systems have utilized clematis species for various purposes, though modern medicinal use is limited. Always consult healthcare professionals before use. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Clematis 'Nelly Moser' is not harvested for food or cutting. Flowers are produced for ornamental purposes and left on the plant. If desired for arrangements, cut stems with 2-3 flower buds in early morning when partially open; they will continue opening indoors and last 5-7 days in water.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Clematis 'Nelly Moser' was named after the wife of a 19th-century English nursery owner and has been a favorite garden plant for over 150 years.
- 🌱 This cultivar is in the Jackmanii group, which produces flowers on both old wood (previous year's growth) and new wood, giving it the unusual ability to bloom twice per season.
- 🌱 The distinctive pink and magenta striped petals are actually sepals (modified leaves), not true petals—clematis flowers lack petals entirely and the colorful parts are modified sepals.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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