Clematis recta (ground clematis) — shrub

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

Clematis recta is a free-standing clematis notable for growing as a shrub rather than a climber. It reaches about 1.5 m and bears scented flowers from May to September. It prefers full sun to partial shade on moist but well-drained sandy, loamy or clay soils with neutral to alkaline pH and is fully hardy in the UK (H7). Handle with gloves as the sap can irritate skin and it is harmful to rabbits if eaten.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clematis recta

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.

More in the Clematis genus

Browse all Clematis →