What: Clematis “Brother Stefan” is named for the renowned Jesuit priest Brother Stefan Franczak, one of the world’s most famous clematis hybridizers.
C. Brother Stefan is a newer introduction and is a true blue, deciduous vine with flowers that are rimmed with ruffled edges. This clematis blooms on both new and old growth, resulting in a greatly extended flowering period. When the new growth emerges, the blooms appear in June and extend for two months. Later, it blooms on old growth July through October. An easy to grow vine, it can be pruned back to 36 inches in the early spring. It is important to protect the roots from direct sun, as in the case of other clematis. This can be accomplished by planting it behind shrubs, placing rocks over the root area or mulching heavily.
Sun or shade: Full to part sun is required, but keep the roots cool as stated above.
Size: Climbs to about 6 to 7 feet tall and as wide, and requires support.
Find it: See C. Brother Stefan at local full service nurseries who will also help with the selection of a support system ranging from trellis, tripod, pergola, etc.
— Sandra Schumacher
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