Clematite parfumate - Clematis montana 'Freda'

Clematis montana 'Freda' is a charming variety of the Clematis montana species, known for its delicate, fragrant flowers and vigorous growth. This climbing plant is ideal for covering large areas such as fences, pergolas or walls, bringing natural charm and a burst of color in spring.

Flower appearance

• Shape : The flowers are simple, with four broad and slightly rounded tepals, which form an open star, typical of the montana species.
• Color : The tepals are a deep cherry pink, sometimes described as cherry pink or rose pink, with a lighter shade towards the center. The creamy yellow stamens add a subtle and elegant contrast.
• Size : The flowers are 5-7 cm in diameter, smaller than those of large-flowered clematis, but extremely numerous, creating an impressive visual effect.
• Flowering period : It blooms profusely in spring, from April to May, sometimes extending into June, depending on the climate. It is a plant with only one bloom per year, but this is spectacular due to the density of the flowers.
• Fragrance : The flowers exude a sweet, subtle fragrance that attracts pollinators such as bees.

Growth characteristics

• Height : It grows quickly to 4-6 meters, sometimes even more in ideal conditions, being one of the most vigorous varieties of Clematis montana.
• Foliage : The leaves are trifoliate, medium green, but in spring they emerge with an attractive tan hue, which gradually matures to dark green.
• Vigor : It is extremely robust and resistant, capable of covering large areas without much intervention.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun or partial shade, with roots protected from direct light (by mulching or low plants at the base).
• Soil : Adapts to most soils, but thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a neutral or slightly acidic pH.
• Pruning : It belongs to pruning group 1 , which means it blooms on old wood and does not require regular pruning. If necessary (for example, to control size), pruning is done immediately after flowering, in June, so as not to affect the buds of the following year.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : It is very resistant to cold (down to -25°C) and disease, inheriting the hardiness of the mountain species, native to the Himalayas and China.
• Watering : Requires moderate watering, especially in the first year after planting, but is drought tolerant once established.
• Fertilization : A balanced fertilizer applied in spring can enhance vigor and flowering.

Origin

Clematis montana 'Freda ' was introduced by the British breeder George Jackman & Son and is named after Freda Skinner, a leading figure in British horticulture. This variety has been awarded the Award of Garden Merit (AGM) by the Royal Horticultural Society in recognition of its exceptional qualities.