Hi, From what I recall of mine, it does look like that, not sure till it starts growing again this year, sorry I'm not much help, if it is this is a VERY aggressive grower:)Anita

I agree with Suzy about pruning back to 12"!! I have found that this plant LOVES it!! Last winter my arbour fell down and the thing was on the ground all winter. My Clematis looked dead & I cut it all the way down to the ground, but didn't disturb the roots. Finally, one little green stem popped up and now my arbour is densely covered and setting buds. I don't know if the location has anything to do with it(the arbour is located on the NW corner of my home), but it gets almost no sun and seems to thrive there. Good luck with yours!!

To add more than one photo just repeat what you did with the first photo in the same message box. When you have all the photos included hit preview and they should all be in your message. Hit submit if you are satisfied with the photos and message. I like to hit preview after adding each photo so I can see that I got the one I wanted. Just be sure to return to the message box below. Don't hit submit until you have added all the photos. Will Goodwin Clematis NOID 3 Jackmanii? Clematis NOID 3 Jackmanii? Clematis NOID 3 Jackmanii? Clematis NOID 3 Jackmanii? The Clematis NOID 3 are all the same plant taken at different times, the last two just recently.

Four feet away, alongside or out front? My Autum Clematis is a real grower, sending long tendrils along the fence. I kind of lead, fold and wind the tendrils where I want them to grow along the fence. Can get rather thick at the fence top, though not usually by the roots as much. 4ft in front would be safe if you control the tendrils somewhat. 4ft beside the clematis would be a nothing distance to reach over, probably cover the Peony. Other Clematis are less vigorous, could be trusted near Peonies. That Autumn Clematis is a real busy grower, gets long and thick. Even trimmed hard yearly in spring, mine grows incredibly every summer. They do seem to get thicker, more growth every year as roots develop. Of course the flowers and smell are REALLY nice in the fall!