Clematis montana Rubens (Montana Group)

Delightfully scented, Clematis montana 'Rubens' is a very large deciduous climber with charming, single, pastel pink flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), from late spring to early summer. The blossoms are so profuse that they generally cover the foliage, which emerges burgundy and matures to bronze-green. The flowers are not as large or flashy as those featured by other Clematis family members, but they are full of charm with their 4 rounded petals, opening pale mauve-pink, then slightly fading as the flowers mature. Their sweet vanilla fragrance fills the air as you pass by. Even after flowering is over, this vine remains attractive, thanks to the seedheads left by the passing flowers, therefore providing winter interest. This vigorous and extremely floriferous vine is perfect for covering a wall, trellis, fence, arbor and makes an interesting groundcover.

• Thrives in moist, well-drained soils, in full sun or part shade. Ideally, Clematis prefer having their 'heads in the sun and their feet in the shade'. Keep the roots cool and shaded by other plants or add a layer of pebbles or flat stones at the base. Afternoon shade is appreciated in hot climate areas.
• This clematis is more resistant to clematis wilt and ignored by pests.
• Quickly grows up to 20-40 feet long (6-12 m) and spreads 6-15 ft. (2-5 m).
• This Clematis belongs to the first group of Clematis – a group including Early-flowering clematis which flower on shoots produced in the previous summer: No regular pruning required. Just clean them up after flowering.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.