Sweet Autumn Clematis: A Late-Season Fragrant Surprise

Not to be outdone by its spring- and summer-flowering brethren, one clematis waits patiently in the wings. Sweet autumn clematis is worth the wait, as billowy masses of fragrant blossoms cascade from the vine in late summer or fall. The inch-wide blooms open creamy white over glossy dark green leaves. When flowers fade, they form showy plumed seeds—fuzzy silver pinwheels that hang on well into winter.

Native to Japan, sweet autumn clematis is hardy in zones 2–9. The vine climbs vigorously to 20–30 ft. Like other clematis, it flourishes where roots are shaded but leaves and flowers grow in sun.

Currently known as Clematis dioscoreifolia, but also sold as C. terniflora, C. paniculata, or C. maximowiczina. Shop for blooming plants in nursery containers or order (as C. terniflora) from Joy Creek Nursery, 20300 N.W. Watson Rd., Scappoose, OR 97056; (503) 543-7474. Catalog $2.

If you buy one now, plant soon. Before freezing weather, spread a 6-inch layer of organic mulch over roots for first-winter protection. Once established, prune in early spring or after flowering.