Sweet Autumn Clematis
clematis flammula
Also known as: ["Fragrant Virgin's Bower","White Clematis"]
Overview
A vigorous deciduous vine with fragrant white flowers and attractive seed heads.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Clematis |
| Botanical Name: | Clematis flammula |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a sheltered garden spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but performs best with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid prolonged frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent humidity in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize before new growth appears; avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to a pair of healthy buds; remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth; Clematis flammula blooms on new wood, so pruning in late winter or early spring is ideal.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before active growth; remove dead wood; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a few weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or dieback in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and leaf dieback; may enter dormancy in colder climates.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in freezing conditions; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at half-strength for young plants; avoid fertilizing dormant plants.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also at risk of poisoning from Clematis flammula, with similar effects to dogs. The plant's glycosides can cause gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are susceptible to poisoning from Clematis flammula due to its irritant glycosides. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset and mild systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicClematis flammula contains irritant compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's toxicity is primarily due to the presence of glycosides, which can lead to mild to moderate poisoning if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Clematis flammula toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Clematis flammula?
A: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods.
Q: Does Clematis flammula require full sun?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for best flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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