Sweet Autumn Clematis
Clematis terniflora
A vigorous deciduous or semi-evergreen climbing vine featuring dark green compound leaves and an abundance of small fragrant white star-shaped flowers followed by feathery seed heads.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
- Water
- Moderate water needs requiring consistent moisture during the growing season while allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; establish drought tolerance once mature.
- Growth
- Perennial climbing vine growing rapidly to a mature height of 10 to 30 feet with a moderate spread utilizing twining leaf petioles to climb supports.
Care instructions
Provide full sun to partial shade with well-draining fertile soil. Water regularly to establish a deep root system and apply a balanced fertilizer in spring before new growth begins.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
Watering
Moderate water needs requiring consistent moisture during the growing season while allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; establish drought tolerance once mature.
Soil
Prefers rich loamy or sandy soil with excellent drainage and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH range between 6.5 and 7.5.
Hardiness zone
USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9
Growth habit
Perennial climbing vine growing rapidly to a mature height of 10 to 30 feet with a moderate spread utilizing twining leaf petioles to climb supports.
Bloom season
Late summer into autumn producing numerous small fragrant white four-petaled flowers.
Propagation
Propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or by sowing seeds in containers during autumn or spring.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to powdery mildew and wilt diseases; manage by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Similar species
Clematis virginiana which features very similar white flowers and climbing habit but is native to North America and typically has trifoliate leaves with serrated margins.