Clematis tangutica 'Helios'
golden clematis (group 3)
Delivery options
- Standard £5.95
This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
- Position: Full sun or partial shade
- Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: Fast
- Flowering period: July to September
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
Nodding lantern-shaped flowers unfurl into flattened lemon-yellow stars, their pointed tepals sweeping back dramatically. The vibrant blooms exude a sweet, coconut scent as they dangle from graceful twisting stems layered with opposite green leaflets. Fluffy silver seed heads prolong seasonal interest after the petals fall. Though typically reaching modest heights, 'Helios' can thrive in suitably large patio containers with free-draining soil or peat-free compost with added grit, and looks striking as a backdrop to purple and blue flowering foreground plants.
Clematis need their roots to be kept cool and moist, so plant the base of these climbers in light shade or provide shading with other plants or a dressing of pebbles. In early spring cut back the previous year's stems to a pair of strong buds about 15-20cm (6-8in) above ground level and apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the plant, avoiding the immediate crown.
- Humans: Skin allergen; Pets: Harmful if eaten