Winter Flowering Clematis Clematis cirrhosa

Winter flowering clematis is a delicate twining evergreen or semi-evergreen vine in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) native to the Mediterranean region. The species epithet, cirrhosa, means “having tendrils,” although the plant does not technically have tendrils. It climbs by its petioles that bend and twine to support the growing vine.

Plant in full sun against a south or west facing wall in moist but fertile well-drained soil. It withstands a variety of soil and pH types. In areas with cold winters plant in a container and move indoors. Cut it back in early spring immediately after they finish flowering to maintain their vigor (Type 1). Feed it with a low nitrogen, slow release fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season. It will take 2 to 5 years to reach its mature size. Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer, or layering in early spring or late winter.  

Showy white flowers appear in December making it a bright spot of color and interest in an otherwise often barren winter landscape. It can reach 4 feet to up to 20 feet tall and 1 to 4 feet wide if supported; otherwise it sprawls on the ground.

Plant in a courtyard, cottage, or pollinator garden and take advantage of its winter blooms. Because the blooms hang downward, consider placing them in a location where the flowers can be enjoyed by viewing them from below such as growing them over an arbor or trellis near a patio or walkway. This is not an aggressive vine and does well planted to grow over the stems of a deciduous shrub, so flowers appear in the winter on bare branches. They are also suitable for containers, naturalized areas, vertical spaces, or woodlands. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Occasional slugs and snails, scale insects, whiteflies, earwigs, and aphids. Wilt, powdery mildew, rust, fungal spots, and stem cankers may occur.

More information on Clematis.