Clematis integrifolia Hakuree

The Clematis integrifolia 'Hakuree' is a very pretty variety of herbaceous clematis that resembles more a perennial plant than a climbing plant. Its long-lasting summer flowering takes the form of long, gracefully inclined and delicately scented bell-shaped flowers reminiscent of gardenia. Their colour varies depending on the temperature, from a tinted white to a pure white. Its habit, more or less spreading, and its delightful flowering make this curious little clematis variety ideal for container or hanging cultivation, but also an excellent perennial for borders.

The Clematis genus belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. The 'Hakuree' clematis is a Japanese horticultural variety derived from the Clematis integrifolia, a herbaceous botanical species native to central and eastern Europe. It is a herbaceous perennial plant with long leafy stems that forms a bushy clump, reaching a height of no more than 75 cm (30in), with a spread of 80 cm (32in). Slow to establish, the plant roots deeply in the soil before showing faster growth in subsequent years. Each spring, a multitude of stems emerge directly from its base. They bear small entire leaves of the integrifolia type, ovate to elliptical, with a deep and glossy green colour. The flowers bloom from June to August, above the foliage. They are campanulate in shape, composed of 4 long fused petals, slightly twisted and undulated. They are 4 to 5 cm (2in) long and hide yellow anthered stamens in their throat. Their sweet and suave fragrance is reminiscent of gardenia, although much less powerful. Each flower is followed by the formation of a decorative silvery green feathery fruiting. This variety prefers well-draining soils and sunny, non-scorching locations.

Plant the integrifolia 'Hakuree' clematis at the edge of a border, in a rockery, on a wall, in pots, or in a hanging basket. It is a lovely companion for roses and summer-flowering shrubs. Clematis represents a genus rich in diversity, with flowers of all colors, shapes, and sizes. Take advantage of their easy cultivation to give your garden a romantic and bohemian touch. The beautiful 'Hakuree' variety, thanks to its herbaceous growth habit, will thrive perfectly in a pot on a balcony, or on a slope planted with perennial salvias, pink or white valerian, catmints, and euphorbias.