Clematis 'Scented Clem' (PBR)
clematis (group 3) (syn. Clematis viticella Sugar Sweet)
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: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: Fast
- Flowering period: April to May
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
This gorgeous clematis made its debut at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2018, and immediately became very sought after. Its purple-blue, star-shaped flowers appear freely from mid- to late spring, and they have a rich almond-like scent, which is at its best in the evening. A superb introduction, it should be planted near a walkway or entrance, so you can take in the scent each time you pass.
Clematis are happiest when their roots are kept cool and moist, so try to plant them where that the base of the plants will be lightly shaded by other, lower-growing species. Otherwise, use a clematis root protector, or top-dress the rootball (avoiding the immediate crown), with a generous layer of shingle or pebbles. 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.
- Humans: Skin irritant; Pets: Harmful if eaten