Seasonal stars

Akebia quinata

The chocolate vine combines purplemaroon spring flowers that smell of spiced vanilla, with semievergreen green leaves. Grow against an east-facing wall, in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil.

HXS: 8x3m

Clematis ‘Bill Mackenzie’ AGM

This tangutica clematis has small yellow lantern flowers that resemble lemon peel, followed by silky seedheads. Grow in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil, in sun or semi-shade.

HXS: 5x3m

Clematis cirrhosa var. purpurascens ‘Freckles’ AGM

During winter, this clematis is hung with scented flowers, their white petals heavily speckled with brown red. Provides valuable food for foraging bees. Grow in sheltered sun. HXS: 3½x1½m

Clematis ‘Frances Rivis’ AGM

An alpina clematis that comes into its own in April and May, when it’s hung with lavenderblue-and-white bell flowers. Grow in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil, in sun or semi-shade. Rarely requires pruning.

HXS: 3x1m

Vitis coignetiae AGM

Crimson glory vine looks similar to grapevine, but is healthier and produces fabulous colours in autumn when the leaves blush red. Its vigour can be controlled with pruning. Grow in full sun.

HXS: 15x5m

Hedera colchica ‘Dentata Variegata’ AGM

An evergreen, selfclinging climber that is both vigorous and handsome. Those variegated leaves will cover a shady wall beautifully. Grow in neutral-to-alkaline soil, in shade or semi-shade. H&S: 5m