Clematis 'Freckles'

Clematis 'Freckles' is an invaluable evergreen climber for the UK garden, specifically because it flowers in the depths of winter. A member of the Cirrhosa group, it produces nodding, bell-shaped flowers that are creamy-yellow on the outside and heavily speckled with maroon-red on the inside—hence the name 'Freckles'. The blooms are followed by attractive, silky seed heads. The foliage is finely cut and dark green, providing excellent year-round cover for walls and fences. Growing to around 3 metres, it is best suited for a warm, sunny, and sheltered wall, particularly in the south of the UK, to protect it from the harshest winter winds. It is hardy (H4) but may need some protection in very cold northern regions. Pruning is rarely needed but should be done immediately after flowering in spring if necessary (Group 1). This plant is excellent for providing nectar for early-emerging bumblebees on mild winter days.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb.