Clematis Jacqui

Clematis 'Jacqui', a climbing plant 3m (10ft) high which bears large, solitary, white flowers with yellow anthers, slightly vanilla-scented.

This very vigorous climber has deciduous, ovate, toothed medium green leaves, 8cm (3in) long, carried by twining stems that coil around their support with tendrils. From May to June, solitary, double, white flowers with yellow anthers and a discreet vanilla fragrance, 5 to 7cm (2 to 3in) in diameter grow on the previous year's branches. After flowering, decorative seed heads topped with feathery styles appear.

Clematis 'Jacqui' likes a clay-siliceous, light, deep, moist and fertile soil, in a sunny position with its base in shade. Plant ground cover plants to achieve this. Beware of aphids!

Clematis 'Jacqui' dresses walls, fences, bamboo pyramids or the trunk of a tree perfectly when planted with other varieties or a climbing rose.

Tips: Avoid applying too much fertiliser, which can stimulate foliage at the expense of flowers. Do not mulch to avoid excessive moisture that promotes clematis wilt.