Evergreen Clematis

Evergreen clematis (Clematis armandii, Ranunculaceae) is a fast-growing broadleaf evergreen vine from central and western China, reaching about 20 feet. Opposite pinnate compound leaves have three leathery, glossy dark green leaflets (7.5 to 15 centimeters each), oblong-lanceolate and drooping. Creamy-white, fragrant flowers (5 to 6.5 centimeters) with 4 to 7 sepals appear in large branched clusters in spring, followed by plumed seed clusters.

Evergreen clematis grows in sun to part shade with roots in cool shade and tops in sun, on rich, loose, well-drained soil high in organic matter (pH 6 to 7.5), hardy in Zones 6 to 7. It is a Pruning Group 1 clematis (blooms on old wood); prune minimally after flowering to avoid dead stem buildup. It requires a support structure. Documented diseases include leaf and stem spot and powdery mildew. Cultivars include 'Apple Blossom' (white flowers shaded pink) and 'Snowdrift' (pure white).