Are clematis perennial in Albuquerque, New Mexico?

I have a clematis in a pot and I was wanting to plant it, but I don't want to risk losing it this winter. I would plan to mulch it well.

Are clematis perennial in Albuquerque, New Mexico?
They are generally hardy perennial in USDA zones 3-9. If you can remember the varietal name, you'll want to double check the specs for it: some varieties are more sensitive than others.
Reply:It is all the way up here in Minnesota. I suppose it could depend on the variety though.
Reply:I'm sure they're cold hardy....we can grow them in Utah...but, they are just a hair tricky to grow. They do not like hot roots....You will definately have that problem in Albuquerque. You need to plant something bushy at the base of the plant to keep the soil at the base of the clematis cool or the plant will die...you could also use bark, but rock will not work.