Clematis triternata Tranquility

The Clematis (x) triternata 'Tranquillity' charms with its simplicity and the abundance of its small light pink flowers, pleasantly fragrant in the evening. Covered with flowers throughout the summer, it forms a true pastel cloud that exhales a sweet scent of bitter almond and vanilla for metres around. It is a vigorous and undemanding climber, to be placed near low bushes that it will climb, in a free or evergreen hedge, or on a fence. It settles happily in the sun as well as in partial shade, in a well-drained garden soil, even limestone and dry in summer.

The genus Clematis belongs to the family of Ranunculaceae. The triternata 'Tranquillity' clematis is a British creation attributed to Barry Fretwell. The Clematis (x) triternata, on the other hand, is a hybrid obtained by cross-breeding the Clematis flammula and C. viticella, two hardy southern species adapted to dry summers. 'Tranquillity' is a climbing plant with long woody stems and is particularly floriferous. It is classified in the group of clematis that flower from July until early autumn, for four months, on the shoots of the current year. It can easily reach 5 to 6 m (16 to 20ft) in height, even 7 m (23ft) in rich and moist soil. By pruning it in spring, it will become more ramified and be contained to more modest dimensions. The flowering takes the form of small pale pink flowers with 4 tepals and prominent pale yellow stamens, measuring 2.5 to 3.5 cm (1in) in diameter, fragrant and honey-scented. It is followed by the formation of feathery, silver and silky fruits, decorative for several weeks. The foliage, deciduous in winter, is composed of leaves cut into small dark green leaflets, thick and shiny. This clematis resembles the C. x triternata 'Rubromarginata', but lighter. It seems to be slightly less vigorous according to some sources.

The 'Tranquillity' clematis competes with climbing vines in conquering unsightly buildings, small trees, or unsightly fences. It will work wonders when installed at the top of a retaining wall from which it will cascade down. Its pastel flowering will blend well with the purplish foliage of the dyer's vine and accompany the fragrant bouquets of climbing roses. It will pleasantly contrast with evergreen shrubs with dark green foliage, such as cypresses, yews, and laurel tins, for example. This clematis, which tolerates dry and limestone soils, is particularly recommended for gardens in the South. Plant your clematis on both sides of the support to be covered.