Overview
Clematis heracleifolia is a climber in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family. Clematis heracleifolia grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and loamy soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and climbing structures. It is native to C & N China.
About
Clematis heracleifolia is a climber in the Ranunculaceae that bears elongated tubular blue flowers with a floral scent. It flowers from May to September. Plant it in full sun to partial shade on moist, well-drained loamy soil with neutral to alkaline pH and a sheltered aspect. Wear gloves when handling because it can irritate the skin and is harmful to rabbits if eaten.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clematis heracleifolia
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
In the garden
A member of the buttercup family, Clematis heracleifolia comes from central and northern China and sits within the Clematis genus. Its flowers are tubular and blue and emit a fragrance that garden visitors can notice through the main flowering season of May to September. The species is listed as H5, meaning it is classed as hardy for most of the UK climate. Give this clematis a spot in full sun or partial shade where the soil is loamy, well drained yet kept reliably moist, and the site is sheltered from cold, drying winds. It prefers neutral to alkaline soil pH. Practical planting positions include mixed borders where the flower scent can be appreciated or trained onto climbing structures designed to support its stems; the plant's suggested uses are borders and climbing structures. Take care when handling—the sap can irritate the skin—so use gloves and other protective equipment and follow the HTA guide on potentially harmful plants if you keep rabbits. Place it where the scented tubular blooms can be enjoyed close to a seating area or path so the fragrance and form are experienced at close quarters.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clematis
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Clematis heracleifolia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Climber
- Suggested uses
- borders, climbing structures
- Native to
- C & N China
- Fragrance
- Flower
- Toxicity
- Skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (rabbits): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Clematis heracleifolia
- Cultivation
- Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil. Prefers a sheltered position with some shade to protect from hot afternoon sun.
- Pruning
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood.
- Propagation
- Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Clematis heracleifolia?
Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil. Prefers a sheltered position with some shade to protect from hot afternoon sun.
Where is the best place to plant Clematis heracleifolia?
Clematis heracleifolia prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Clematis heracleifolia need?
Clematis heracleifolia grows best in well-drained and loamy soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Clematis heracleifolia?
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood.
Is Clematis heracleifolia hardy in the UK?
Clematis heracleifolia has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Clematis heracleifolia?
Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering.
Is Clematis heracleifolia toxic?
Skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (rabbits): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.
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)