Create a cascade of big beautiful flowers with classic perennial clematis.

You see them every summer, and there's no reason not to have them right in your own backyard. And front yard.

Clematis are not difficult perennials to grow, and once they're established, they're back each year like clockwork.

Of course the all-time favorite is the deep purple "Jackmanii", and it's also one of the ones that will give you the most flowers. But even more spectacular is Nelly Moser, the old bicolor shown at right that has enormous flowers and is easy to train up a trellis or even through shrubs. Many good gardeners plant clematis under their rose bushes, so the vines climb up through and display their big flowers on top along with the roses, or after the roses have finished blooming.

All you need to know is that they demand good deep rich soil, and the perennial vines have to climb into full sun to bloom well. They like their roots shaded, but their tops sunny. So pick the spots well, and create wonderful color with classic clematis.

There are several kinds of clematis, but we've decided to keep it simple and only offer the four perennial favorites. They all grow the same, and many combine them for a multicolored show. For example, the pink and red together are a knock-out.