Sweet Autumn Clematis
Clematis terniflora
A vigorous woody vine featuring dark green, glossy compound leaves and producing masses of small, fragrant white to pale bluish-white flowers with prominent stamens, followed by feathery seed heads.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Water
- Moderate watering needs. Provide about 1 inch of water per week during the growing season, increasing frequency in extreme heat. Drought tolerant once fully established.
- Growth
- Deciduous woody vine that climbs via twining petioles, reaching mature heights of 15 to 30 feet with a rapid growth rate.
Care instructions
Provide full sun to partial shade with at least six hours of direct light daily. Water consistently to establish a deep root system, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Plant in fertile, well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering
Moderate watering needs. Provide about 1 inch of water per week during the growing season, increasing frequency in extreme heat. Drought tolerant once fully established.
Soil
Prefers rich, loamy, well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
Hardiness zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 9
Growth habit
Deciduous woody vine that climbs via twining petioles, reaching mature heights of 15 to 30 feet with a rapid growth rate.
Bloom season
Late summer to autumn, featuring abundant small white or pale blue-tinted flowers with a sweet fragrance.
Propagation
Propagated primarily through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or by sowing seeds in autumn. Layering in spring is also effective.
Common pests & issues
Generally resilient, but may occasionally be affected by powdery mildew, stem rot, or visits from aphids and spider mites. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Similar species
Clematis virginiana (Virgin's Bower), which is native to North America and typically blooms earlier in the summer with slightly different leaflet serration.