Clematis 'Odorata'

Clematis 'Odorata' belongs to the Montana group and is also listed as Clematis montana var. rubens 'Odorata'. In May and June it opens its single flowers, 6-7 cm across, in soft to deeper pink with darker pink veining. Its special charm is the sweet, far-carrying scent.

Growing up to 500 cm, 'Odorata' climbs vigorously over pergolas, trellises, fences and house walls, forming a dense sheet of blossom in spring. It thrives in sun as well as partial shade, best in moist, well-drained soil; keep the root zone shaded, for example with underplanting or a layer of pebbles. A sunny position enhances the fragrance of the flowers.

'Odorata' is hardy (zone 7, down to about -17.7 to -12.3 °C) and grows without difficulty once established. Since it flowers on the previous year's wood, prune only after flowering: cut the shoots back to about 100 cm in June, and the plant will form new flowering wood by next spring. Please note that the sap can irritate the skin; wear gloves when pruning.