Sweet autumn clematis
Clematis terniflora · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around sweet autumn clematis and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- August to October
- Adult size
- 6 to 8 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Japan and Korea
- Soil type
- Rich, well-drained
Care
Exposure
Plant your panicle clematis in a sunny to semi-shaded location to encourage generous flowering. It particularly appreciates warm spots where its flowers will develop abundantly.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in the first two years, to help establish the roots. In summer, keep the soil fresh without excess moisture; a mulch at the base helps limit evaporation.
Soil Preparation
Prepare a substrate rich in organic matter, well-drained and slightly moist. Amend the planting hole with mature compost to ensure good initial nutrition.
Pruning and Training
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood. Cleaning up tangled stems in late winter facilitates spring renewal. This species requires less drastic pruning than some other clematis varieties.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring or spread compost on the surface for gradual feeding. Natural decomposition of mulch is often sufficient; avoid excessive nitrogen which would reduce flowering.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for powdery mildew in hot, dry climates: ensure good air circulation at the base and water regularly. Clematis can also be sensitive to root rot in overly wet soil; check drainage before planting.
Did you know?
Originating from East Asia, panicle clematis became famous in Europe under the name 'Clematis terniflora' but is often called 'Sweet Autumn Clematis' for its small fragrant flowers that appear late in the season. Its abundant autumn flowering makes it a star of contemporary gardens looking for color at the end of the season.
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.