Clematis is a genus of about 300 species within the buttercup family Ranunculaceae and is composed of mostly vigorous, woody, climbing vines and herbaceous perennials. Only four species occur in southern Africa. Their garden hybrids have been popular among gardeners. They are mainly of Chinese and Japanese origin. Most species are known as clematis in English, while some are also known as Travellers Joy or Old Man’s Beard. The small-flowered woody vines of this genus are used as creepers and the large-flowered vines are used extensively in the development of ornamental hybrids grown for their exceptionally beautiful flowers. Our indigenous Clematis and Clematopsis are much in demand in Europe. Clematis species are mainly found throughout the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, rarely in the tropics. The most important requirement for successful cultivation is a well-drained, humus-rich, permanently cool soil with good water retention. The plants like to climb up to the sun with their roots in the shade. Prune old twiggy growth in spring and propagate the species from seeds sown in spring.

Clematis armandii commonly known as Armand Clematis or Evergreen Clematis is a vigorous evergreen vine that climbs to 4.5m and as wide using tendrils and is densely covered with pendulous compound leaves with 3 long lance-shaped leaflets that are up to 12.5cm long and a bronze colour when first emerging, then turning a glossy dark green with age. In late winter to early spring appear the clusters of fragrant 7cm wide white flowers on the previous year’s growth. Plant in sun or light shade with moderate water – shade is a must in hotter inland gardens but on the coast it tolerates deep shade but blooms best with bright light or full sun. It is hardy to around -12°C. Best if pruned right after flowering to clear out dead foliage and to control growth. With its several annual growth flushes, even after pruning it will rapidly rebound to create a dense cover and grow new flowering stems for the following year. It provides a wonderful texture in the garden and makes a great hedge plant that is attractive in or out of bloom. It is reported to be resistant to deer predation with flowers attractive to bees, butterflies and birds.