Clematis 'Kaen'

Clematis 'Kaen' was raised by Japanese breeder K. Shinzawa and introduced before 2007. Its 8–12 cm, richly double to semi-double flowers open greenish and turn vivid red with a pink central bar, paler at the base and flecked with fine green spots; the broad, lance-shaped sepals with wavy edges and pointed tips carry dark pink filaments and pale yellow anthers.

The main flush runs from May to June, followed by a lighter second flush from July to August. At around 200 cm, 'Kaen' suits trellises, fences, pergolas and other supports well, also climbs into shrubs by its twining leaf stalks, and thrives in containers too. A sunny to semi-shaded spot facing south, east or west suits it best – against a dark background the vivid colour stands out beautifully.

'Kaen' is reliably winter-hardy (zone 6, down to about -23 °C). Cut the plant back to about 100 cm in June to encourage vigorous growth and a generous second flush.