Clematis 'Helsingborg'

Clematis 'Helsingborg' was bred by Swedish breeder Tage Lundell around 1970 from a cross between Clematis ochotensis and Clematis alpina, placing it firmly within the alpine clematis group. Its nodding, bell-shaped flowers appear in deep violet-blue with lighter edges, reach 7-8 cm across and consist of four slightly twisted sepals surrounding pale stamens.

Growing to around 300 cm, 'Helsingborg' makes a vigorous climber for trellises, arbours or obelisks and also thrives in a container. Flowering begins as early as April – much sooner than most other clematis groups – making it one of the first highlights of the climbing season. Thanks to its alpine origins it also tolerates shadier, more sheltered positions, though it prefers free-draining, rather lean soil.

'Helsingborg' is fully hardy (zone 5, down to -28.8 °C) and copes reliably with harsh winters. For vigorous growth and abundant flowering, cut your Clematis Helsingborg back to around 100 cm in June; since the variety flowers mainly on last year's wood, this moderate pruning after flowering encourages fresh growth without compromising next season's display.