Clematis integrifolia

Clematis integrifolia is one of the oldest clematis species in cultivation: introduced from south-eastern Europe as early as 1573, the wild species was formally described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753 – and remains the parent species behind more than 100 cultivars and hybrids of the Integrifolia Group. Its 4–6 cm bell-shaped flowers nod on slender stems, with four narrow, slightly recurved sepals in vivid blue and yellow to creamy-white stamens; a delicate fragrance and, later, decorative silky, silvery seedheads complete the picture.

From June to September the plant produces a steady succession of new flowers on the current year's growth. At around 75 cm it stays compact and does not climb on its own: as a loosely clump-forming subshrub it leans on neighbouring plants or a small support. This makes it an excellent partner for the perennial border, a companion to roses and low shrubs, or a container plant for a sunny patio; it thrives in any position from full sun to part shade, provided the roots and base are kept cool and shaded.

Clematis integrifolia is very winter-hardy (zone 5, down to about -28 °C) and dies back completely to the rootstock in winter. As a pruning-group-3 plant it is cut back hard to about 10 cm in March, so it regrows vigorously and flowers freely in spring. Undemanding and robust, as befits a wild species proven over centuries, it is also an excellent choice for beginners.