Overview
Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include climbers, walls, fences, obelisks, pergolas, trees, containers and mixed borders.
About
Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' is a deciduous climbing cultivar within the Clematis genus, part of the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It typically grows to a height of 2.5 to 4 metres with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, reaching full height within 2 to 5 years. This cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade and is suited to a variety of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, preferring moist but well-drained conditions with alkaline to neutral pH. It is versatile in aspect and exposure, performing well on south, north, west, or east-facing walls, whether exposed or sheltered. Its season of interest spans summer, autumn, and winter.
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
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clematis
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Climber Wall Shrub
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Climbers, walls, fences, obelisks, pergolas, trees, containers, mixed borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL)
- Cultivation
- Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Provide support for climbing. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pruning
- Prune in late winter or early spring, cutting back to strong buds about 30-60 cm from the base to encourage vigorous growth and flowering on new wood.
- Propagation
- Seed, cuttings, layering, division
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Snails, Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildew, Clematis wilt
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL)?
Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Provide support for climbing. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Where is the best place to plant Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL)?
Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) need?
Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL)?
Prune in late winter or early spring, cutting back to strong buds about 30-60 cm from the base to encourage vigorous growth and flowering on new wood.
How big does Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) grow?
Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) hardy in the UK?
Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL) has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Clematis 'Rouge Cardinal' (LL)?
Seed, cuttings, layering, division.
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)