Sweet Autumn Clematis
clematis terniflora
Also known as: ["Clematis paniculata","Sweet Autumn Virgin's Bower"]
Overview
A vigorous, deciduous vine known for its profuse, fragrant, small white flowers in late summer and early autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Clematis |
| Botanical Name: | Clematis terniflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a garden setting with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly alkaline conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Heavy (cut back to 12–18 inches from the ground to promote vigorous new growth).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to reduce humidity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun in summer; adjust shade levels based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly alkaline soil
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soil with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights but avoid prolonged frost.
Protect from frost; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care based on seasonal temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; fertilize after watering to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with higher phosphorus for blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- 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 / 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to strong buds or lateral branches; remove any dead or damaged wood; thin out crowded growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth; clematis terniflora blooms on new wood, so prune hard in late winter or early spring.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, increasing to twice weekly in hot, dry periods; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or blackened stems in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage, slow growth, or dieback; prolonged frost may kill tender parts.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, bud drop, or reduced flowering; dehydration may cause wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose the right fertilizer type; apply at the correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in late autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Clematis terniflora, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The plant's toxins can cause significant distress and require immediate veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Clematis terniflora by dogs can lead to toxicosis due to the presence of irritant compounds. These substances can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicClematis terniflora contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxins interfere with cellular processes, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Clematis terniflora invasive?
A: It can be aggressive in some regions but is not typically considered invasive in all areas.
Q: How do I prune Sweet Autumn Clematis?
A: Prune it hard in late winter or early spring, cutting back to about 1 foot from the ground.
Q: Does it require support?
A: Yes, it is a vine and needs a trellis or support structure to climb.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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