What Clematis Is Evergreen

What Clematis Is Evergreen

Evergreen clematis varieties are a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to add year-round greenery and seasonal blooms to their outdoor spaces. Unlike deciduous clematis, which lose their leaves in winter, evergreen clematis provides lush foliage even during the colder months, making them perfect for covering walls, fences, and pergolas throughout the year. Explore our Clematis Collection to find the right evergreen variety for your garden.

What Makes Clematis Evergreen?
Evergreen clematis retains its foliage year-round, thriving in regions with milder winters. These varieties typically belong to specific species, such as Clematis armandii, known for their adaptability and ability to flourish in diverse conditions. Evergreen clematis plants are especially valued for their ability to bring life to a garden during times when other plants are dormant.

Top Evergreen Clematis Varieties

1. Clematis armandii (Evergreen Clematis)

   • Description: This is one of the most popular evergreen clematis varieties, featuring glossy, leathery leaves and fragrant white flowers that bloom in early spring.
   • Height: 20–30 feet.
   • Best Use: Perfect for covering walls, fences, and pergolas with year-round greenery.

2. Clematis cirrhosa

   • Description: Known for its bell-shaped flowers that appear in late winter to early spring, this clematis variety offers delicate blooms against a backdrop of evergreen foliage.
   • Height: 8–12 feet.
   • Best Use: Ideal for sheltered areas, trellises, or climbing through shrubs.

3. Clematis ‘Apple Blossom’

   • Description: A cultivar of Clematis armandii, ‘Apple Blossom’ features pale pink, fragrant flowers and glossy leaves that remain vibrant year-round.
   • Height: 15–20 feet.
   • Best Use: Adds color and greenery to pergolas or large trellises.

4. Clematis ‘Freckles’

   • Description: This variety produces speckled, cream-colored flowers in late winter and early spring, standing out against its evergreen leaves.
   • Height: 8–10 feet.
   • Best Use: Works well in small gardens or container settings.

Care Tips for Evergreen Clematis

1. Choose the Right Location

   • Evergreen clematis prefers full sun to partial shade, with protection from harsh winter winds in colder climates.

2. Provide Well-Draining Soil

   • Use rich, well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH. Adding compost or organic matter helps maintain soil fertility.

3. Water Consistently

   • Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Deep watering once a week is ideal during dry periods.

4. Fertilize Annually

   • Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote vigorous growth and blooming.

5. Prune Lightly

   • Most evergreen clematis varieties require minimal pruning. Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring, and trim lightly to shape the plant.

6. Protect in Winter

   • In colder zones, apply mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots.

Where to Use Evergreen Clematis

• Pergolas and Arbors: Create a lush, year-round canopy of greenery with fragrant blooms in spring.
• Fences and Walls: Evergreen clematis is perfect for softening hard structures while providing privacy.
• Container Gardens: Compact varieties can thrive in large pots, adding evergreen beauty to patios or balconies.

Find your ideal evergreen clematis variety in our Clematis Collection.

FAQ: What Clematis Is Evergreen?
Q: Can evergreen clematis survive in colder climates?
A: While many evergreen clematis varieties prefer milder winters, they can survive in colder zones with proper protection, such as mulching the roots and planting in a sheltered spot.

Q: Do evergreen clematis varieties require more care than deciduous types?
A: No, they generally require similar care, with the added benefit of retaining foliage year-round.

Q: When do evergreen clematis bloom?
A: Most evergreen clematis varieties bloom in late winter or early spring, adding color when few other plants are flowering.

Q: Can I grow evergreen clematis in a container?
A: Yes, compact evergreen varieties like Clematis ‘Freckles’ can thrive in large containers, provided they have adequate support and consistent watering.