Overview
Clematis 'Arabella' (I) is a climbing herbaceous perennial in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Clematis 'Arabella' (I) grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include climbers, walls, fences, obelisks, pergolas, trees, containers and mixed borders.
About
Clematis 'Arabella' is a deciduous climbing herbaceous perennial within the genus Clematis, part of the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. This cultivar grows to a height of 1.5 to 2.5 metres with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, reaching full height in two to five years. It thrives in full sun on south- or west-facing aspects and tolerates a range of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, preferring moist but well-drained conditions with neutral to alkaline pH. Clematis 'Arabella' is suitable for use on walls, fences, obelisks, pergolas, trees, containers, and mixed borders, offering seasonal interest in spring, autumn, and winter.
About the genus
Clematis is a genus of about 380 species within the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Their garden hybrids and cultivars have been popular among gardeners, beginning with Clematis 'Jackmanii', a garden staple since 1862. More cultivars are being produced constantly, mainly of Chinese and Japanese origin.
Wikipedia contributors, "Clematis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clematis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clematis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Clematis 'Arabella' (I) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial, Climber Wall Shrub
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Climbers, Walls, Fences, Obelisks, Pergolas, Trees, Containers, Mixed borders
- Fragrance
- Mildly fragrant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Clematis 'Arabella' (I)
- Cultivation
- Plant in a sheltered spot with full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots in winter.
- Pruning
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Remove dead or weak stems in late winter or early spring.
- Propagation
- Cuttings, Layering, Seed
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Cutworms, Voles
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus, Clematis wilt, Clematis slime flux
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Clematis 'Arabella' (I)?
Plant in a sheltered spot with full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots in winter.
Where is the best place to plant Clematis 'Arabella' (I)?
Clematis 'Arabella' (I) prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Clematis 'Arabella' (I) need?
Clematis 'Arabella' (I) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Clematis 'Arabella' (I)?
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Remove dead or weak stems in late winter or early spring.
How big does Clematis 'Arabella' (I) grow?
Clematis 'Arabella' (I) reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Clematis 'Arabella' (I) hardy in the UK?
Clematis 'Arabella' (I) has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Clematis 'Arabella' (I)?
Cuttings, Layering, Seed.
More in the Clematis genus
- Clematis 'Fukuzono' (I)

- Clematis douglasiiChaparral Clematis

- Clematis stans

- Clematis × eriostemonClematis

- Clematis × jouiniana

- Clematis 'Edward Prichard'clematis 'Edward Prichard'
- Clematis 'Fairydust' (Vt)
- Clematis 'Herbert Johnson' (EL)