Clematis recta

Clematis recta is a wild species native to Central and Southern Europe as far as western Russia, discovered as early as 1597 in Italy and Russia; it was formally described in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus in Species Plantarum. Historically it was known as Flammula Jovis (little flame of Jupiter), because its sap can burn the skin. Its small, star-shaped white flowers, usually with four sepals and pale yellow stamens, are borne in large terminal panicles and give off a strong scent reminiscent of hawthorn.

Clematis recta flowers from June to July and reaches a height of around 100 cm. Unlike most clematis it does not climb but grows as an upright herbaceous perennial – though in full bloom the stems tend to flop over, so a discreet support helps. The species suits perennial borders and mixed borders, underplanting for roses and shrubs, or a large pot, and its scent attracts bees and butterflies. It thrives best in a sunny to semi-shaded spot with moist but free-draining soil.

Clematis recta belongs to pruning group 3 and is cut back to about 10 cm in March – like other herbaceous perennials, it then reshoots from the rootstock each year. It is reliably hardy (zone 5, -28.8 to -23.4 °C). Wear gloves when pruning and handling it, as the sap can irritate the skin.