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

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: fast-growing
• Flowering period: July
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  The semi-nodding flowers emerge a red-purple colour with a reddish central bar and fade with age on this late-flowering clematis. 'Star of India' is ideal for covering a trellis or climbing through a neighbouring tree, and it's happiest in a sunny spot - but with its roots in the shade. Pair it with Rosa 'Madame Grégoire Staechelin' for lush, cottage garden loveliness.
  
  
• Garden care: Climbing clematis need their roots to be kept cool and moist, so plant the base of these clematis in light shade or provide shading with other plants or a dressing of 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.