Clematis – Evergreen Group

Group 1 Clematis

As climbers, Clematis are unsurpassed in their long flowering presence, the rich diversity of flower shapes, a wide array of colors, and tolerances in terms of exposure and climate. It is no wonder they are so popular! From tree huggers to container varieties, there is a Clematis for every garden and flowers for almost every month of the year!

Members of the Ranunculaceae family, Clematis, include more than 300 species and hundreds of hybrids and are divided into 12 main groups, each with consistent flower size, blooming season, pruning and garden use characteristics.

Evergreen Clematis

The earliest Clematis to flower, the Evergreen group includes small-flowering clematis, which provide gardeners with some of the greatest pleasures in winter. Blooming from midwinter onward, these very early flowering Clematis transform boundary walls and fences into leaving leafy screens and reward us with profuse flowering at a time when the garden has little to offer. Their evergreen foliage remains handsome year-round and provides multiseason interest.

Species: Clematis cirrhosa and the delightfully fragrant Clematis armandii are the two main evergreen species.
Flowers: These evergreen clematis produce an abundance of small, single flowers, mostly in creamy white or white shades.
Blooming Season: They bloom profusely from mid-winter onwards, starting with Clematis cirrhosa (January) and then Clematis armandii (March-April). The flowers of Clematis cirrhosa give way to very ornamental, fluffy, silky seedheads, which remain on the plant, adding further interest.
Size: Quick-growing, these clematis are big plants that can reach up to 20-40 ft. (6-12 m). They need ample support as they become heavy with age.
Uses: These clematis are quite versatile. They can be trained over trellises, arbors, pergolas, arches, or fences. Careful: these clematis are not good companion plants. Their thick foliage cuts off the light to any host plant, killing it by starvation. If planted into a large broadleaf evergreen, they might kill it via strangulation.
Toxicity: All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation. Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.

Guide Information

Hardiness	7 - 11
Plant Type	Climbers
Genus	Clematis
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest	Spring (Early, Mid), Winter
Maintenance	Low
Water Needs	Average
Soil Type	Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH	Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage	Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics	Showy
Tolerance	Deer, Rabbit
Attracts	Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Landscaping Ideas	Wall-Side Borders, Arbors, Pergolas, Trellises, Walls And Fences

Great Evergreen Clematis Varieties

Clematis ‘Apple Blossom’ (Evergreen Group)

Clematis ‘Apple Blossom’ is a popular evergreen climber, showcasing delightful almond-scented flowers and splendid foliage. The single flowers, opening from red buds, fade from pale pink to white. With leathery, waxy leaves, it forms a lovely screen year-round. Perfect for walls, trellises, fences, or pergolas, it blooms profusely in early to mid-spring.

Hardiness	7 - 11
Exposure	Full Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid)
Height	20' - 40' (6.1m - 12.2m)

Clematis ‘Pixie’ (Evergreen Group)

Clematis ‘Pixie’ is a prized, compact evergreen shrub known for its profusion of small, fragrant lime-yellow flowers. Blooming in late spring to early summer, it creates a stunning display against dark-green leaves. This space-saving clematis is the result of a cross between C. petriei ‘Princess’ and C. marmoraria, both native to New Zealand.

Hardiness	7 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early)
Height	3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm)

Clematis armandii (Evergreen Group)

Clematis armandii is a vigorous evergreen climber with abundant almond-scented cream-white flowers in early to mid-spring. Its dark glossy green leaves create a beautiful backdrop. Attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, it’s a great addition to pollinator gardens. Perfect for walls, trellises, or fences, it provides months of enjoyment with its lovely fragrance.

Hardiness	7 - 11
Exposure	Full Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid)
Height	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)

Clematis cirrhosa var. balearica (Evergreen Group)

Clematis cirrhosa var. balearica is a charming evergreen climber with fragrant, creamy-white bell-shaped flowers adorned with reddish-maroon freckles. Blooming from mid-late winter, it has delicate seedheads and attractive fern-like foliage. Perfect for walls, trellises, or fences, plant it where you can enjoy its winter flowers and scent.

Hardiness	7 - 11
Exposure	Full Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early), Winter
Height	8' (240cm)

Clematis cirrhosa var. purpurascens ‘Freckles’ (Evergreen Group)

Clematis cirrhosa var. purpurascens ‘Freckles’ is a delightful winter-flowering clematis. Its fragrant, creamy-white bell-shaped flowers are speckled with bright to dark red streaks. Blooming from mid-late winter, it attracts bees and develops fluffy seedheads. The evergreen foliage adds beauty, turning bronze in winter. Perfect for doorways, paths, or pergolas.

Hardiness	7 - 11
Exposure	Full Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early), Winter
Height	9' - 12' (270cm - 3.7m)

Clematis x cartmanii ‘Avalanche’ (Evergreen Group)

Clematis x cartmanii ‘Avalanche’ is a prolific evergreen climber with abundant pure white flowers. Blooming in early to mid-spring, its bushy trailing or scrambling habit creates an avalanche of blossoms. The deep green, glossy foliage adds to its charm. Perfect for walls, fences, pergolas, or as a groundcover.

Hardiness	7 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid)
Height	12' - 15' (3.7m - 4.6m)

Growing Tips

Evergreen clematis can provide a lovely, year-round display of foliage and flowers. Here are some tips for growing evergreen clematis successfully:

Location: Evergreen clematis prefers a location with sun to partial shade. It thrives in a place with sun on its flowers and foliage but with its roots in the shade.
Soil: The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. It prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH. Adding coarse grit into a large planting hole is a great way to avoid waterlogging during winter.
Planting: When planting, dig a hole twice the width and depth of the root ball. Place the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil, firming it gently around the plant.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting. Continue to provide regular water for the first growing season, reducing watering as the plant establishes. Although relatively drought-tolerant once established, it appreciates consistent moisture.
Feeding: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring, following package instructions.
Pruning: Evergreen clematis does not usually require heavy pruning. Light pruning to shape and control the size of the plant can be done in early spring before new growth begins. Since they bloom on last year’s wood, severe pruning should be avoided.
Support: Provide a trellis, fence, or other structure for the plant to climb. Evergreen clematis can become quite heavy, so ensure the support is sturdy.
Disease and Pest control: Watch out for common clematis problems such as clematis wilt, powdery mildew, and aphids. Regular inspection and early intervention can help keep these issues under control.

Remember that with the right care and conditions, evergreen clematis can be a stunning addition to your garden.

Discover These Helpful Guides for Further Reading

Clematis Types – Which one is yours?

Combining Roses and Clematis

Clematis Blooming Seasons

Clematis: How to Grow and Care with Success

Native Plant Alternatives to Clematis paniculata (Sweet Autumn Clematis)

Combine Early-Flowering Clematis with your Climbing Roses

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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.