The Fragrance Of Clematis: A Scented Garden Mystery

Fragrant clematis are a hot topic in the world of plant breeding, with new varieties being developed that bear colourful, showy flowers and pack a punch with their scent. While some clematis have no odour, others are known for their fragrance, which can range from vanilla and orange to almond, marzipan, and even rose-like scents. The strength of the scent depends on many factors, and for most varieties, the only way to clearly smell their perfume is to get up close. However, some species and varieties have a more heady, wide-spreading fragrance.

Some Clematis varieties have a fragrance

Clematis x aromatica

This variety has the strongest scent of all the Clematis varieties. Its scent is reminiscent of vanilla with a touch of orange. It is a hybrid of two lesser-known species, C. flammula and C. integrifolia, and first appeared in France in the 19th century. Its flowers rarely exceed 2 inches across (5 cm). It is ideal for growing in pots, but must be protected from freezing in winter.

Clematis viticella ‘Betty Corning’

This variety bears abundant, scented, bell-shaped flowers. The flowers are pale at the beginning of summer and darken as temperatures rise. The petals curl upwards as the flower ages. It can survive drought for several weeks but flowers best if watered. It copes well with freezing temperatures.

Clematis x triternata ‘Rubromarginata’

This Clematis bears hundreds of flowers, each with a strong scent similar to the taste of almonds. It is an excellent climber and can cover walls if given a trellis to latch on to. Its flowers are small, only about an inch across (2-3 cm), but they are strongly scented.

Clematis armandii ‘Apple Blossom’

Like other Clematis armandii, the ‘Apple Blossom’ cultivar releases an almond-like scent. Its flowers are like upside-down crocus blossoms, with a fresh pastel pink hue. It is a strong climber and is now produced by major horticulture companies, making it easily available.

Clematis montana ‘Mayleen’

C. montana varieties are among the most fragrant. ‘Mayleen’ has a unique scent and soft, pinkish petals that overlap slightly as they unfurl. If allowed to dangle from an arbor, it will create a waterfall of flowers.

Clematis cirrhosa ‘Jingle Bells’

This variety is unique in that it blooms in winter. Not all C. cirrhosa cultivars are fragrant, but the ‘Jingle Bells’ variety has a light, tangy citrus-like smell that appears on mature flowers. Its four pristine white petals hang down like little bells. It is a slow grower that only needs pruning if it gets in the way, and it also grows well in pots.

Other Fragrant Varieties

Other Clematis varieties purported to have some type of fragrance include C. ‘Apple Blossom’, C. ‘Bowl of Beauty’, C. ‘Little White Charm’, C. ‘Bells of Emei Shan’, C. ‘Fascination’, C. ‘Hendryetta’, C. ‘Velvet Night’, C. recta ‘Purpurea’, C. terniflora ‘Robusta’, C. ‘Lunar Lass’, C. ‘White Abundance’, C. ‘Cote d’Azur’, C. ‘Crepuscule’, C. ‘Edward Prichard’, C. ‘I Am Stanislaus’, C. ‘Jouiniana Praecox’, C. ‘Mrs Robert Brydon’, C. ‘Stanislaus’, C. ‘Continuity’, C. ‘East Malling’, C. ‘Fragrant Spring’, C. ‘Gothenburg’, C. ‘Grandiflora’, C. ‘Pink Perfection’, C. ‘Sir Eric Savill’, C. montana var. wilsonii, C. ‘Fair Rosamond’, C. ‘Buckland Cascade’, and C. ‘Mongolian Gold’.

Fragrance strength depends on several factors

The fragrance strength of clematis depends on several factors. Firstly, it is subjective and depends on the individual's sense of smell. Other factors include the time of day, moisture, and the USDA Zone in which the plant is grown, as winter chill can impact whether a clematis blooms with a fragrance.

For example, the Montana Group of clematis requires cold spells found in frost-free USDA Zones 7-9. Similarly, the Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora), one of the most well-known fragrant varieties, thrives in USDA Zones 7-11.

The strength of the scent also varies among different species and varieties of clematis. Some have a more subtle fragrance that can only be detected up close, while others have a stronger, more heady scent that can fill the air. For instance, Clematis x aromatica, a hybrid of C. flammula and C. integrifolia, has a strong scent reminiscent of vanilla and orange. On the other hand, Clematis crispa blooms have a mild fragrance that can only be detected at close range.

Additionally, the blooming period and flower size can influence the fragrance strength. For instance, Clematis x triternata 'Rubromarginata' bears hundreds of heavily scented flowers during its blooming period from June to August. In contrast, Clematis cirrhosa 'Jingle Bells', a winter-blooming variety, has a lighter citrus fragrance.

Furthermore, environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity can also affect fragrance strength. For instance, a particularly cold winter may enhance the scent of some clematis varieties.

Lastly, personal preferences for certain scents should be considered. Some people may prefer the almond-like scent of Clematis armandii 'Apple Blossom', while others may favor the sweet, rose-like fragrance of Clematis viticella 'Betty Corning'.

Clematis x aromatica has the strongest scent

Clematis x aromatica: The Strongest Scent

The Clematis x aromatica is a hybrid of two lesser-known species, C. flammula and C. integrifolia. It was first discovered in France in the mid-19th century and has been in cultivation ever since. This variety of clematis is known for its strong, unique scent, which sets it apart from other clematis plants.

The Aroma

The flowers of the Clematis x aromatica emit a delightful fragrance that combines vanilla with a hint of orange. The dark-coloured flowers, with deep violet petals, open up to reveal ivory-cream scented stamens, creating a sweet and alluring aroma.

Blooming Period and Height

This clematis variety typically blooms from June through September, adding colour and fragrance to gardens during the summer months. In terms of height, it peaks at around 6 feet (2 meters), making it less suitable for covering large structures or walls.

Care and Cultivation

Clematis x aromatica is a member of the small-flowered clematis group, with flowers rarely exceeding 2 inches (5 cm) in width. It is well-suited for growing in pots, but it is important to protect the plant from freezing temperatures during winter.

Comparison with Other Varieties

While most clematis varieties require one to get up close to detect their scent, the Clematis x aromatica stands out for its potent fragrance that can be noticed from a distance. This characteristic has made it a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add both visual appeal and a delightful aroma to their outdoor spaces.

In comparison with other fragrant clematis varieties, such as Clematis crispa, which has a mild fragrance, or Clematis 'Betty Corning', which usually requires close proximity to detect its scent, the Clematis x aromatica is a clear frontrunner in terms of scent strength.

For gardeners seeking a climbing vine with a powerful fragrance, the Clematis x aromatica is an excellent choice. Its strong scent, reminiscent of vanilla and orange, along with its dark, elegant flowers, make it a unique and captivating addition to any garden.

Some Clematis have a mild fragrance

For example, winter chill can impact whether a plant blooms at all and whether it has a fragrance. Certain Clematis varieties, like those in the Montana Group, require cold spells found in frost-free USDA Zones 7-9.

If you're looking for a fragrant Clematis, Sweet Autumn (Clematis terniflora) is a well-known option. However, to truly experience its scent, you may need to get up close. Another variety, Clematis crispa, is also purported to have a mild fragrance, though one source likened it to a "tiny whiff."

Other Clematis varieties that are supposed to have some type of fragrance include:

• Clematis 'Apple Blossom'
• Clematis 'Bowl of Beauty'
• Clematis 'Little White Charm'
• Clematis 'Bells of Emei Shan' (syn. Clematis repens Hort.)
• Clematis 'Jingle Bells'
• Clematis 'Wisely Cream'
• Clematis cirrhosa balearica
• Clematis 'Fascination'
• Clematis 'Hendryetta'
• Clematis 'Triternata Rubromarginata'
• Clematis 'Velvet Night'
• Clematis recta 'Purpurea'
• Clematis terniflora 'Robusta'
• Forsteri Group (only male flowers are fragrant)
• Clematis 'Lunar Lass'
• Clematis 'White Abundance'
• Clematis 'Cote d’Azur'
• Clematis 'Crepuscule'
• Clematis 'Edward Prichard'
• Clematis 'I Am Stanislaus'
• Clematis 'Jouiniana Praecox'
• Clematis 'Mrs Robert Brydon'
• Clematis 'Stanislaus'
• Clematis 'Continuity'
• Clematis 'East Malling'
• Clematis 'Fragrant Spring'
• Clematis 'Gothenburg'
• Clematis 'Grandiflora'
• Clematis 'Pink Perfection'
• Clematis 'Sir Eric Savill'
• Clematis montana var. wilsonii
• Clematis 'Fair Rosamond'
• Clematis 'Buckland Cascade'
• Clematis 'Mongolian Gold'
• Clematis 'Betty Corning'
• Clematis 'Paul Farges'

While some Clematis have a mild fragrance, others are known for their more heady and wide-spreading scents. For example, Clematis x aromatica has a strong scent reminiscent of vanilla with a touch of orange. Clematis x triternata 'Rubromarginata' has a heavy bloom and a strong scent similar to almonds.

So, while not all Clematis are fragrant, there are certainly varieties available that can add a delightful scent to your garden.

Clematis cirrhosa 'Jingle Bells' has a citrus scent

The Clematis cirrhosa 'Jingle Bells' is a unique winter-flowering clematis variety that not only brightens up gardens during the colder months but also delights the senses with its citrusy fragrance. This climbing perennial produces an abundance of bell-shaped flowers, with creamy-white petals and long yellowish-green anthers, that release a light, tangy lemon scent.

The 'Jingle Bells' variety is a wonderful choice for those seeking to add both visual appeal and a pleasant fragrance to their garden during the winter months. Its nodding, bell-shaped flowers appear from December to March, filling the air with their sweet citrus perfume. Each flower boasts four pristine white petals that open to reveal a cluster of long yellowish-green stamens, creating a delightful display.

The 'Jingle Bells' clematis is an excellent choice for adorning walls, trellises, arbours, pergolas, or even trees, as it uses its tendrils to climb. It can also be grown in containers on patios and balconies, making it a versatile option for any outdoor space. This clematis variety typically reaches a height of 2 to 3 metres (7 to 10 feet) and has a spread of about 1 metre (3 feet).

To ensure the best growth and fragrance from your 'Jingle Bells' clematis, it's important to provide it with the right care. This plant prefers a position in full sun, sheltered from strong winds, with its head in the sun and its base in the shade. The soil should be light, fertile, and moist but well-drained. Adding fertiliser during the summer is recommended, and while clematis is sensitive to excess moisture, it's important to water it regularly during the growing season, being careful not to water directly onto the base of the plant.

In terms of pruning, 'Jingle Bells' requires minimal maintenance. However, if you wish to increase its density and flowering, you can prune it to about 40 centimetres (16 inches) from the ground in early spring. Overall, the 'Jingle Bells' variety of Clematis cirrhosa is a delightful addition to any garden, offering both beauty and a citrusy fragrance during the winter months.

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