Pergola Climbing Plants – Under Nature’s Roof

by Paul Ciocoiu · July 16, 2015

We have many choice within reach to embellish a patio. The first choice is using pots and various containers to grow flowers which will give the cement corner a note of vitality. When we build a pergola, the relaxing space gets a multifunctional role: we can socialize over those cool summer evenings under the pergola or we can even install a small outdoor kitchen under its roof. But nothing compares to a pergola naturally covered by climbing plants. We’ve seen them and know exactly what we are talking about, their beauty exceeds any imagination. Below are several pergola climbing plants to inspire you in completing your favorite tranquility corner.

The first option are the clematis, with 300 species of them. Clematis is a favorite climber among gardens as it is easy to grow, relatively lightweight, and provides a beautiful burst of color beginning in early spring. Combine clematis with climbing roses for quick cover and loads of color. You might also consider any of the varieties of clematis or a combination of clematis plants that bloom at different times.

Pergola climbing plants – clematis

Since we mentioned climbing roses, they are excellent for limited flat space garden areas that have a lot of open vertical space to climb up and elegantly drape the area with beautiful blooms. In time, horticulturists produced many species, each with its own color and flavor for an explosion of colors.

Pergola climbing plants – climbing roses

Passionflower is an exotic climber with intriguing purple and white flowers that quickly covers garden structures. There are even frost hardy varieties available for the northern garden. Combine passionflower with an early-blooming clematis for a striking effect that will last from early spring to late fall.

Pergola climbing plants – passion flower

We couldn’t miss wisteria on our pergola climbing plants list. A strong framework, such as that of this solidly built pergola, is needed to support the weight of the elegant, but vigorous, wisteria. The plant goes as tall as ten meters if gets enough sunlight. After two years, it is recommended pruning it to keep it under control.

Pergola climbing plants – wisteria

Honeysuckles also makes it on our list. The fragrance of honeysuckle, particularly heady at dusk, encourages anyone passing through to pause a while to survey the view beyond. Relaxing under an arch covered with these strong fragrance flowers is a mesmerizing experience.

Pergola climbing plants – honeysuckle

Morning glory is also a fast growing climber with twining stems. This variety of morning glory bears sky blue, funnel-shaped flowers with white centers throughout summer, but the colors can vary from white to pink as well.

Pergola climbing plants – morning glory

Last on our list, for now, is the climbing hydrangea. Although slow to establish, this shade-tolerant climber becomes vigorous. Its lace-like flower caps appear in summer. It is recommended to plant it in fall.