Clematis tangutica
Garden Plant Information

Name

Clematis tangutica

Genus  

Clematis

Species

tangutica

Cultivar/variety

General description

Hardy, fast growing, deciduous climber grown for pendent yellow flowers in summer and autumn, followed by large fluffy seed heads. Clematis tangutica is not as vigorous as those in the montana group but it still grows fast and will provide useful covering for a screen or an unsightly fence or shed. It also does well growing into a tree.

Attractive to wildlife. The growth provides nesting places for small birds and the flowers are pollinated by bees and flies.

Season of interest

Flowers in summer and autumn followed by attractive seed heads.

Key horticultural features

1. Habit - climbing/twining. H: up to 5m S: up to 3m

2. Stem - smooth, green to purple, brittle.

3. Leaves - three-lobed and not quite compound, mid-green with serrated edges.

4. Flowers - showy, solitary, pendulous yellow flowers, borne in summer and autumn. They are followed by attractive wispy seedheads.

Cultural details

Aspect

Full sun to partial shade.

Soil

Reasonably fertile, well-drained.

Hardiness

Fully hardy.

Maintenance

This Clematis is part of Group 3, which means it should be pruned annually in late winter - cut down to about 30cm (12") unless the plant is growing into a tree or over a support.

Propagation

By fresh seed in autumn, softwood cuttings in summer or by layering.