Overview
Clematis integrifolia is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family. Clematis integrifolia grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral and slightly alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and containers. It is native to C Europe to C Asia.
About
Clematis integrifolia is a perennial herbaceous clematis that flowers from May to September. It prefers full sun to partial shade on well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Position the plant in a south-facing, sheltered spot for best performance. Take care when handling: the sap can irritate skin and it is harmful to rabbits if eaten.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clematis integrifolia
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 integrifolia is a herbaceous member of the Ranunculaceae native from central Europe to central Asia and produces its flowers between May and September. As a non-woody perennial it dies back after the season and regrows from the rootstock the following year. Give it a position with full sun or partial shade on fertile, well-drained soil that remains moderately moist; neutral to slightly alkaline conditions suit it. A south-facing, sheltered aspect protects blooms from cold winds and helps the plant make the most of the UK growing season. Hardiness rating H5 means it is classed as hardy for most parts of the UK, although a sheltered site will reduce winter exposure. Clematis integrifolia works well in herbaceous borders, rock gardens and containers where soil can be kept free-draining yet moisture-retentive. In pots use a rich, free-draining compost and keep watering consistent through the flowering months. Take precautions when pruning or deadheading: wear gloves and other protective equipment because the sap can irritate skin, and note that the plant is harmful to rabbits if eaten. For further information and emergency contacts regarding pets, consult the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clematis
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, fertile
- Soil pH
- neutral, slightly alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist, well-drained
- Aspect
- south-facing
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Clematis integrifolia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herbaceous
- Suggested uses
- borders, rock gardens, containers
- Native to
- C Europe to C Asia
- 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 integrifolia
- Cultivation
- Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil with good organic matter. Mulch in winter to protect roots.
- Pruning
- Cut back hard to about 10-15 cm in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Propagation
- Seed, softwood cuttings in early summer, division in spring
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Clematis integrifolia?
Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil with good organic matter. Mulch in winter to protect roots.
Where is the best place to plant Clematis integrifolia?
Clematis integrifolia prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Clematis integrifolia need?
Clematis integrifolia grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers neutral and slightly alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist to well-drained.
How do I prune Clematis integrifolia?
Cut back hard to about 10-15 cm in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
Is Clematis integrifolia hardy in the UK?
Clematis integrifolia 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 integrifolia?
Seed, softwood cuttings in early summer, division in spring.
Is Clematis integrifolia 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)