Clematis koreana (19/04/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to dappled shade
Flowering period: Late spring
Soil: Moist, free drained
Eventual Height: 3m
Eventual Spread: 3m
Hardiness: 3a, 3b 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Family: Ranunculaceae
Clematis koreana is a deciduous, woody vine climber with a twining habit. Its mid green leaves are ternate, up to 9cm long and 12cm broad. Its leaflets are broadly ovate with dentate margins, up to 9cm long and 8cm broad. Its red/ pale purple flowers are bell shaped, up to 12cm long and borne on the previous years growth.
Clematis koreana Flower (19/04/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Clematis koreana is native to the Korea, north east China and east Siberia. In its native habitat it grows in forest scrub.
The etymological root of the binomial name Clematis is from the Greek klema meaning a ‘vine branch’, alluding to the vine like habit of the climbing members of the genus. Koreana is derived from the Latin meaning ‘from Korea’.
The landscape architect may find Clematis koreana useful as a climber within a dappled woodland setting. A framework for this plant to cling to is necessary as it is a twining plant. As with most Clematis species this species prefers cool roots.
Clematis koreana Leaf (19/04/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Ecologically, Clematis koreana flowers are attractive to pollinating insects.
Clematis koreana prefers moist, free draining soils. It tolerates most pH of soil although it prefers a slightly acidic pH. It dislikes wet soils.
Clematis montana requires little maintenance. If required pruning may be carried out after flowering.
