Clematis x cartmanii Pixie

The Clematis x cartmanii 'Pixie', sometimes called the 'Pixie' Clematis, is a small climbing plant with particularly compact evergreen dark green foliage that is covered in small white flowers with delicately fragrant green throats in spring. Its small size and frost-sensitive nature make it a lovely plant for balconies and terraces, where it can happily overflow from pots.

The Clematis genus belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. The 'Pixie' Clematis is a horticultural variety belonging to the cartmanii hybrid group. These plants are the result of cross-breeding different botanical species native to New Zealand, such as Clematis indivisa, better known as Clematis paniculata, or Clematis forsteri. It is a perennial climbing plant with voluble stems, evergreen, vigorous, and floriferous. It is classified in the group of clematis that flower early in the season on one-year-old shoots. It takes a little time to establish, eventually forming a bushy clump that reaches barely 70 cm (28in) in all directions. Flowering begins in April, earlier or later depending on the climate, and lasts for several weeks. The flowers, clustered together, measure 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in diameter. Their shape resembles that of daisies but with only 6 greenish petals when they open, becoming whiter at full bloom. The centre of the corolla, light green in colour, is occupied by pale yellow stamens with white anthers. The flowering is followed by the formation of silvery, feathery fruits in decorative helix shapes. The light, evergreen foliage is composed of thick, finely cut leaves that are bright and glossy green.

Clematis (x) cartmanii like 'Pixie' are sensitive to frost and also dislike dry soils. It will not survive below -5°C. Although capable of climbing a support, it will be much more beautiful when allowed to roam freely, weaving through neighbouring plants or trailing over low bushes in favourable climates, for example in Breton gardens. Cartmanii clematis are excellent plants for terraces or balconies in cold regions. Let them cascade from a large container: the foliage, flowers, and fruits will provide a magnificent display throughout the growing season. These clematis will rest in winter in a lightly heated conservatory.