Clematis flammula Aromatica

Clematis flammula 'Aromatica' (also known as Clematis x aromatica) is a small clematis that climbs to a height of 1.5m (5ft). It stands out with its long summer flowering in small blue-violet flowers with long cream stamens, which offer an intense fragrance especially in the late afternoon.

It develops deciduous, pinnate leaves that are dark green and 5cm (2in) long, carried by voluble stems that coil around their support with tendrils. From June to September, it boasts an abundance of paniculate clusters of 4-petaled blue-violet flowers with long cream stamens, 3cm (1in) in diameter. They grow on the current year's branches. At the end of flowering, fruits appear that are topped with a silvery-grey feathery style.

Clematis x aromatica is very hardy. It likes clay-siliceous soil that is well worked, deep, moist and fertile. It likes a sunny position. It prefers cool roots so place ground cover plants around it to provide shade. Watch out for aphids.

It is ideal for covering small pyramid structures. Train it on a trellis near a pathway or doorway to fully appreciate its fragrance.

Avoid excessive fertilisation that stimulates foliage at the expense of flowers. Do not mulch in order to avoid excessive moisture that promotes wilting disease.