Nodding Virgin's Bower

Nodding clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped, primrose-yellow blooms set Clematis rehderiana apart from more conventional large-flowered hybrids. Sweeping upward with immense vigour, this late-Summer flowering species climber produces delicate, nodding blossoms that emit a distinct, citrusy fragrance reminiscent of cowslips. Its light green, coarse foliage provides handsome coverage over large structures before giving way to silky, decorative seed heads that linger into Winter. The foliage will then die back or become woody in late Winter, and should be pruned to roughly 1 foot above ground level in February/March.  Perfectly suited for scrambling through established trees, covering sturdy pergolas, or disguising unattractive boundaries, it thrives with minimal fuss and brings late-season visual and aromatic interest to the garden.

Site: Tolerates moderate exposure
Position: Full sun or light shade. Does best when roots are in the shade although the leaves and flowers like the sun
Soils: Moist, well-drained, preferably rich in organic matter. Tolerates chalky soil
Flowering Period: August-October
Hardiness: Fully hardy in Ireland
Size: Can reach 13-23 ft (4-7m) Spread: 5-8ft (1.5-2.5m)

Image by Epibase cropped and licensed under CC BY 2.5