 Coaxed open by the first warming rays of spring sunshine, early-flowering clematis transform the garden with a flurry of pastel shades. Usually the first to stir is the evergreen Clematis armandii which starts unfurling waxy white blooms as early as March, just before expanding its bronzy leaves. Get close enough to the large clusters of flowers and you'll be astonished at their delicious perfume which is laced with rich almond undertones. This clematis requires the protection of a sheltered wall where its shield-shaped glossy leaves will form a cladding all through the year. For a wonderful welcome grow the variety 'Appleblossom' which has pink-suffused buds around a sunny doorway. |
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| Another evergreen clematis is Clematis x cartmanii 'Joe', which transforms its garlands of ferny leaves into snowy swags for a few glorious weeks in March and April. This species is more compact and easy to fit in to the smallest of spaces. It makes a wonderful display in a pot or try it draped over the edge of an alpine sink. A new evergreen variety is Clematis 'Pixie' which virtually smothers fine lacy foliage under a froth of scented green flowers in spring. Both these varieties look superb threading through dwarf shrubs such as hebes or dwarf conifers and appreciate the extra cosiness afforded by their supporting hosts. |
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 As the name suggests Clematis alpina is well used to chilly mountain slopes, so it's ideal for cold or exposed places. Until recently species with purple flowers were the most widely available, but several varieties have been selected which now include blue, pink and white shades. All are easy to recognise from their simple four petalled flowers that nod in profusion among their foliage. The most popular variety is 'Francis Rivis' with large and abundant pale blue flowers that twist in an almost groovy fashion. Clematis alpina 'Willy' has white flowers that are stained red on the backs of the petals and will create a raspberry ripple effect across any dreary north-facing wall. A reasonably restrained habit ensures that any variety of Clematis alpina can easily be supported on trellis or wire mesh. You don't even need to worry about pruning, unless they outgrow their space and then it's simply a case of trimming back the stems after flowering. As an extra bonus their flowers are replaced by swirls of fluffy seeds which often linger right into the winter. |
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