Plant of the week: Clematis cirrhosa balearica
This evergreen species comes into its own in the winter garden
The evergreen parsley or fern-leaved clematis, Clematis cirrhosa balearica is one of the saviours of winter, flowering at a time when every flower is to be cherished. The species comes from the mountains and valleys of Southern Europe, the Mediterranean and North Africa, including the Balearic Islands after which it is named.
The plant is clothed in small, glossy, dark green lobed leaves on twining stalks, which enable it to scramble and secure itself to supports. The foliage often becomes bronze tinted in winter. From December through to March clusters of small, bellshaped, creamy-green flowers are produced, each spotted in maroon. Some have a delicate citrus scent and after flowers fade feathery seed heads are produced in spring.
Most varieties are derived as distinct colour forms found in the wild while one, ‘Advent Bells’, is a recent hybrid crossed with a related species from China. It will need training to a support and tying in, especially in the early years, so it covers the surface evenly, and doesn’t become congested. They can also be draped over a gazebo or arbour or used to clothe an old tree-stump. They don’t need any pruning, except for trimming and keeping them in shape.
Fern-leaved clematis prefer a sheltered, sunny site, preferably south or west facing. They’ll grow in most moist, well-drained soils, but won’t stand being waterlogged in winter. They’re also effective grown in large pots, but will need adequate support
and training so they don’t turn into an unruly tangle.