Clematis vitalba
traveller's joy - clematis (group 3)
A robust climber for clothing shady walls and arches, this deciduous clematis displays lush green foliage and blooms with clusters of scented creamy-white flowers from mid-summer to early autumn. The flowers give way to long-lasting silky seedheads, resembling the captivating appearance of an old man's beard (another of its many common names). Known for nourishing moth larvae, this species prefers neutral to alkaline soils, offering both beauty and ecological significance in any garden setting.
How to care for Clematis vitalba:
To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.
Clematis need their roots to be kept cool and moist, so plant the base of these climbers in light shade or provide shading with other plants or a dressing of pebbles. In early spring cut back the previous year's stems to a pair of strong buds about 15-20cm (6-8in) above ground level and apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the plant, avoiding the immediate crown.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
8m
Eventual spread:
4m
Position:
Full sun / light shade / shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
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Humans: Skin allergen; Pets: Harmful if eaten
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