Climber
Mountain clematis
Clematis montana
A very vigorous deciduous climber that can cover a large wall, fence or mature support with masses of small spring flowers. It is too large for a light trellis or a confined garden.
- Size
- 8–12 m high · 2.5–4 m wide
- Light
- Full sun / Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Hardy
- Seasonal form
- Deciduous
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- Install or confirm a strong permanent support before planting; mature growth can cover a building, large fence or substantial tree.
- Do not place it beside gutters, roof tiles or a small trellis unless you can inspect and control the long stems.
Why choose it
- Covers a large structure quickly and flowers profusely in late spring.
- Creates a natural flowering screen on a wall, pergola, outbuilding or mature support.
Care
- Keep the root area cool and evenly moist while the plant establishes.
- Train new stems across the support and remove growth entering roofs, gutters or neighbouring plants.
- Prune only when necessary, immediately after flowering; hard winter pruning removes the next spring display.
Good to know
- Sap may irritate skin and plant material should not be eaten; wear gloves when pruning and clear cut stems promptly.