Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana (tube clematis) — Climber

Overview

Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana is a climber in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family. Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana 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 var. davidiana is a clematis valued for its elongated, tubular blue flowers and light fragrance. It behaves as a scrambling climber and suits sheltered positions. Plant in moist, well-drained loamy soil with a neutral to alkaline pH and give full sun or partial shade. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling, as the plant is a skin irritant, and note it 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

Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana originates from central and northern China and belongs to the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. The variety produces tubular, often blue, scented flowers that appear from May to September and can provide extended seasonal interest. Give the plant a sheltered aspect and keep the soil moist but well drained; it prefers loamy soils with a neutral to alkaline reaction and will take either full sun or partial shade. Its UK hardiness is H5, which translates to a hardy plant for most British gardens when sited out of harsh wind. Position this clematis where it can scramble over low supports or through mixed borders and climbing structures, using its flowering display to soften edges or add vertical perfume. Observe handling precautions: the foliage and sap can irritate skin, so use gloves, and keep it away from rabbits as it is harmful if eaten. Expect scented tubular blooms through the summer into early autumn, making it a useful selection for extended-flowering schemes.

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 var. davidiana 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 var. davidiana

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil in a sheltered position. Can be grown against a wall or on a trellis. Water regularly during dry periods.
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 var. davidiana?

Prefers well-drained soil in a sheltered position. Can be grown against a wall or on a trellis. Water regularly during dry periods.

Where is the best place to plant Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana?

Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana need?

Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana 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 var. davidiana?

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood.

Is Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana hardy in the UK?

Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana 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 var. davidiana?

Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering.

Is Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana 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

Browse all Clematis →