Clematis have their roots in the Far East. The first example, C. Viticella, arrived in Europe in the mid-16th century. Two centuries later, the Victorians bred numerous varieties and their popularity continues. The native climber is C. Vitalba, a familiar sight in autumn hedgerows, the fluffy seed heads explaining the traditional name: Old Man’s Beard.

Flowers: May – June, August - September

• Well drained, light soil
• East, West and South aspects
• Full sun and partial sunlight
• Hardy

• Clematis like full sun or partial shade and moist, but well-drained soil, with their roots in the shade. For this, plant the crown 5-8cm (2-3in) beneath the soil, ideally shaded by other plants.
• Alternatively layer stones on the surface of the soil, which protects the roots from the sun and from drying out.
• Group Raymond Evison for pruning - reduce all stems down to 15cm (6in) of soil level in late winter/early spring.
• Can be a skin irritant and harmful to pets if ingested