Overview
Clematis recta is a shrub in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Clematis recta grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, woodland gardens and naturalizing. It is native to S & C Europe.
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 recta is an unusual member of the genus Clematis that grows as a free-standing shrub rather than using tendrils to climb. Native to southern and central Europe, it typically forms upright, multi-stemmed clumps to about 1.5 m and produces scented flowers over a long season from May to September. Plant Clematis recta in full sun or a position with some afternoon shade; aspects facing south, east or west are all suitable. It tolerates sandy, loamy and clay soils provided they remain moist but well drained and are neutral to alkaline in reaction. As a UK H7 plant it is fully hardy and will withstand open-winter conditions; avoid waterlogged planting sites. When handling or pruning wear gloves and eye protection because the sap can cause skin irritation, and keep it away from rabbits since it is harmful if eaten (for pet guidance see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants). Use Clematis recta at the front of a mixed border, on woodland margins or for naturalising where its upright stems and scented flowers can form a distinct flowering clump rather than scrambling over supports.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clematis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- south, east, west
- Exposure
- full sun, partial shade
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Clematis recta size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- shrub
- Height
- 1.5 m
- Suggested uses
- borders, woodland gardens, naturalizing
- Native to
- S & C Europe
- 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 recta
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates a range of soil types including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots.
- Pruning
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood. Avoid heavy pruning as it flowers on old wood.
- Propagation
- Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering in spring or autumn.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Clematis recta?
Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates a range of soil types including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots.
Where is the best place to plant Clematis recta?
Clematis recta prefers full sun. It suits full sun and partial shade positions.
What soil does Clematis recta need?
Clematis recta is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Clematis recta?
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood. Avoid heavy pruning as it flowers on old wood.
How big does Clematis recta grow?
Clematis recta reaches a height of 1.5 m.
Is Clematis recta hardy in the UK?
Clematis recta has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Clematis recta?
Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering in spring or autumn.
Is Clematis recta 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.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- The Smallest GardenHow to plant a window box that lasts all season — choosing and fixing the planter, reading the light, picking plants for sun or shade, and keeping it watered and thriving.
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
More in the Clematis genus
- Clematis 'Fukuzono' (I)
- Clematis douglasiiChaparral Clematis
- Clematis heracleifoliatube clematis
- Clematis heracleifolia var. davidianatube clematis
- Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana 'Campanile'Tube Clematis
- Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana 'Crépuscule'Tube Clematis
- Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana 'Côte d'Azur'Tube Clematis
- Clematis heracleifolia var. davidiana 'Wyevale'Tube Clematis