Clematis paniculata is a vigorous deciduous climber known for its clouds of fragrant white flowers that appear in late summer to early fall. Its sweet scent, fast growth, and ability to cover fences or arbors make it a staple in naturalistic and cottage style gardens. As the blooms fade attractive silvery seed heads provide winter interest. This species is appreciated for its minimal pruning needs and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Height & Spread: 20 - 30 ft x 6 - 10 ft
Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil rich in organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; water deeply during dry spells
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant once established
Native Status
Originally native to New Zealand, Clematis paniculata is not native to North America but has naturalized in some regions due to its vigor and garden value.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Fragrant white blooms attract native bumblebees and carpenter bees searching for late season nectar.
Butterflies
- Visited by swallowtails and painted ladies during peak bloom for nectar foraging.
Moths
- Evening scented blooms attract night flying moths such as sphinx moths and underwings.
Birds
- Seed heads and tangled vines provide nesting cover for wrens and goldfinches in winter and early spring.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 6 - 10 ft width and train vertically to structures up to 30 ft tall.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent for pergolas, chain link fences, trellises, and to naturalize over stumps or dead shrubs in cottage gardens.
Companion Plants
- Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' - Vertical ornamental grass offers seasonal height and soft movement against the clematis' spreading habit.
- Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' - Rounded clusters of white blooms mirror the clematis flowers and offer a bold contrast in leaf shape.
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' - Arched foliage and creamy bell flowers complement clematis when planted nearby at ground level.
- Alchemilla mollis (Ladys Mantle) - Soft textured foliage and chartreuse blooms fill in beneath clematis and suppress weeds effectively.
- Heuchera villosa 'Autumn Bride' - Mounding foliage and frothy late blooms pair well with clematis along shaded lower borders.