A vigorous deciduous climber that blankets itself in a profusion of dainty four-petalled pink or white flowers, many lightly vanilla-scented, during spring. Excellent for covering fences and arbours quickly.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 8 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Mountain Clematis
Clematis montana is a fast-growing climber in the Ranunculaceae family. It reaches around 8 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Pink and white flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Mountain Clematis
Mountain Clematis suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Mountain Clematis does best in loamy, free-draining and alkaline soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 2.4 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Mountain Clematis is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Mountain Clematis after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Mountain Clematis in the garden
Mountain Clematis earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, a fast screen or informal hedge, its fragrance and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Mountain Clematis with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Mountain Clematis
Plant Sale lists Mountain Clematis as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.