Clematis 'Comtesse de Bouchaud'

Clematis 'Comtesse de Bouchaud' is a true garden legend: since its introduction around 1900 by French breeder Francisque Morel, it has been a cornerstone of the clematis trade and has delighted generations of gardeners. Named for a historical French countess, it opens vivid 8–10 cm flowers with six slightly overlapping tepals, a distinctive bumpy texture and deep midribs. The tips of the tepals curl gently under, giving each bloom a softly rounded look; creamy stamens provide a bright contrast. On first opening the petals carry the faintest lavender tinge, which soon gives way to an unmistakable, radiant pink that plays beautifully against foliage and companion plants.

'Comtesse de Bouchaud' flowers from July to September, bearing its blooms primarily in the upper half of the plant — giving it a light, graceful appearance. Growing to around 250 cm, it suits trellises, obelisks, fences and pergolas perfectly. Thanks to its comparatively compact habit, it also thrives in large containers on terraces and balconies. It tolerates all aspects — from a sunny south-facing wall to a shadier north-facing position — making it an exceptionally adaptable climber.

Winter-hardy to zone 6 (down to about -23.3 °C), 'Comtesse de Bouchaud' comes through hard winters without difficulty. Pruning is refreshingly straightforward: simply cut it back to about 50 cm in March — a hard prune that requires little experience and encourages strong, flowering new growth. This ease of care, combined with its reliable and generous blooming, makes it the ideal clematis for beginners. The RHS Award of Garden Merit, most recently reconfirmed in 2016, merely confirms what gardeners have known for over a century: this variety is always a worthwhile choice.