Fragrant clematis
Clematis flammula · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around fragrant clematis and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- August to October
- Adult size
- 4 to 6 meters in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Mediterranean Europe and Asia Minor
- Soil type
- Well-drained, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in summer and during flowering. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in autumn and limit it in winter, except during prolonged drought.
Exposure
Plant your flammula clematis in a sunny to partially shaded location, ideally with flowers in full sun. Choose a spot near a support structure (trellis, pergola) where it can flourish freely.
Pruning and training
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead branches. In late winter or early spring, perform more severe pruning by cutting stems back to 30-50 cm from the ground to encourage vigorous regrowth.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring when growth resumes. Add a potassium-rich fertilizer in late summer to support flowering and strengthen the plant before winter.
Soil preparation
Enrich the soil with well-decomposed compost or potting soil at planting time. Ensure optimal drainage by adding sand or gravel if needed. A surface mulch helps maintain moisture and regulate root temperature.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew in warm, humid weather: promote good air circulation by pruning regularly. Aphids may occasionally appear; treat them quickly if necessary. Excess moisture can cause rot: ensure good drainage and air circulation.
Did you know?
The flammula clematis takes its Latin name from 'flamma' (flame), referring to its small, delicately scented cream-white flowers that appear in late summer and resemble tiny flames. Long used in traditional medicine, especially in Southern Europe, it was reputed for its diuretic and purifying properties, though its use requires caution.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.