What plants would make good root protection for Clematis?

Q.k9003237
by Q.k9003237
I want to plant a Clematis to add interest to the front of my house. This spot gets full afternoon sun and I know Clematis do not like their roots in the sun. I would love suggestions for plants that do not get too tall - 12" plus or minus and also add attractive foliage.
  4 answers
  • KaR10274984 KaR10274984 on May 16, 2017

    Juniper is my favorite. And if it gets too big you can trim it to taste or shape

  • Gr812369788 Gr812369788 on May 17, 2017

    Wave petunias

  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on May 17, 2017

    Use black or green mondo grasses,Lirope.sedge grass. this will all be enough to shade the root system on the clematis and compliment it at the same time.

  • Gina Gina on May 18, 2017

    Clematis do not like afternoon/ evening sun. They love the morning sun the best. They can also grow south or north side of house depending on the zone.

    • Ellis Ellis on May 19, 2017

      That's true, but I have some that are doing quite well near my south-facing front door. Maybe because I'm up here on Long Island, zone 7? I do make sure they don't get too parched. I grow wave petunias, new guinea impatiens, or whatever annuals that I like at the garden center (last year, some pelargoniums) at their feet.