Clematis 'Hendryetta '

Clematis 'Hendryetta' was raised by Dutch breeder Wim Snoeijer from a cross of 'Purpureostriata' and 'Alionushka' and was introduced to the trade in the early 2000s. Its 5–8 cm, bell-shaped flowers nod gracefully downward and show four slightly twisted, recurved sepals in a rich pink with darker ribs on the outside, along with creamy stamens on yellow filaments. The fragrant flowers make 'Hendryetta' an especially sensory presence in the garden.

From June to August, 'Hendryetta' flowers freely on the current year's growth. At around 150 cm, it stays compact and — like most cultivars in the Integrifolia Group — grows as a scrambler rather than a true climber: it works its way through low shrubs, leans on neighbouring plants or a small support, and is therefore ideal for the perennial border, as a companion to roses, or in a container on the patio or balcony. It thrives in sunny to semi-shaded spots and is easy-going about aspect.

'Hendryetta' is very winter-hardy (zone 5, down to about -28 °C) and dies back to the rootstock in winter. Cut the plant back hard to about 25 cm in March — this encourages vigorous new growth and abundant flowering. The silky, silvery seedheads that follow decorate the garden well into autumn.