This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, well-drained, neutral soil
• Rate of growth: fast-growing
• Flowering period: July to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This late summer-flowering clematis produces masses of large, mauve-pink flowers with contrasting yellow centres from July to September. A favourite of gardeners since the beginning of the twentieth century, it is easy to grow and less prone to clematis wilt than other large-flowered varieties. Ideal for growing against a sunny wall.
  
  
• Garden care: In early spring cut back the previous year's stems to a pair of strong buds about 15-20cm (6-8in) above ground level and apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the plant, avoiding the immediate crown.