Clematis x cartmanii Early Sensation

Clematis 'Early Sensation' is an unusual bush that remains beautiful all year round. However, it is slightly frost-sensitive. It belongs to a group of hybrids resulting from the cross-breeding of several New Zealand species. This climbing perennial stands out with its beautiful evergreen foliage, finely cut like parsley, and abundant and early flowering, starting from the beginning of spring. Its medium-sized flowers resemble white daisies with fresh green hearts. They give way to a beautiful silky and silvery fruit that persists on the plant for a long time. Grow this unique little climber in open ground in a mild oceanic climate. It will also add a very personal touch to a patio, planted in a beautiful container where it will happily cascade during summer.

The genus Clematis belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. 'Early Sensation' is a horticultural variety belonging to the cartmanii hybrids group. These plants are the result of the cross-breeding of different botanical species native to New Zealand, such as Clematis indivisa, better known as C. paniculata, or C. forsteri. It is an evergreen climbing plant with a perennial stump and voluble stems. It is classified in the group of clematis that flower early in the season on one-year-old shoots. It is a little slow to establish, but will eventually form a bushy clump that can reach 2 to 3m (7 to 10ft) in all directions, with a rapid growth rate. The flowering begins in March-April, depending on the climate, and lasts several weeks. The flowers, gathered in long clusters, measure 7 to 8cm (3in) in diameter. Their shape resembles that of daisies, but they have only 6 petals, which are initially a greenish-white colour that turns pure white with a vanilla heart. The pistachio-green centre of the corolla is occupied by green stamens with white anthers. The flowering is followed by the formation of silvery, silky, feathery fruits in decorative spirals. The evergreen foliage is composed of thick-textured leaves, 9 to 12cm (4 to 5in) long. They are curiously and finely cut, in a bright and shiny green.

Clematis 'Early Sensation' is sensitive to severe frost and excessively dry soils. They can climb up to 3m (10ft), but they are much more beautiful when allowed to weave through neighbouring plants or wander on low shrubs, dwarf conifers, boxwoods, and myrtles. They are also excellent plants for a patio or balcony in  cold regions. Let them cascade from a large container, where the foliage, flowers, and fruits will offer a magnificent spectacle throughout the entire summer season. During winter, store the pots in a sheltered location, such as a slightly heated veranda.