Clematis vitalba (Wild clematis) — Climbing

Overview

Clematis vitalba is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 4-8 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Clematis vitalba grows best in full shade, full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include climbers, borders and containers. It is native to Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region, Flemish Region, Walloon Region and Flanders.

About

Clematis vitalba, commonly known as traveller's joy, is a deciduous climbing shrub in the Ranunculaceae family. It can reach heights of 4 to 8 metres with a spread of 2.5 to 4 metres, typically taking 5 to 10 years to reach full height. This versatile climber thrives in a range of light conditions from full sun to full shade and adapts well to various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with a preference for moist but well-drained or well-drained soils. It is notable for its interest during summer, autumn, and winter seasons.

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 shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Clematis vitalba size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Climber Wall Shrub
Habit: Climbing
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 4-8 metres
Spread: 2.5-4 metres
Time to full height: 5-10 years
Suggested uses: Climbers, Borders, Containers
Native to: Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region, Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Flanders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Clematis vitalba

Propagation: Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering
Pest resistance: Slugs, Snails, Aphids
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Clematis vitalba?

Clematis vitalba prefers full shade, full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Clematis vitalba need?

Clematis vitalba is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.