Clematis montana var. rubens Pink Perfection

The Clematis montana var. rubens 'Pink Perfection' is a particularly floriferous and vigorous variety of mountain clematis selected in England by George Jackman and Sons in the early 1950s. In spring, the plant is almost hidden under a mass of pink flowers with a slight scent of vanilla and biscuits. Before flowering, it presents young leaves with a purplish and coppery colour. After the flowers, numerous feathery and silky fruits adorn its vegetation until late in the season. This hardy climber is perfect for large spaces, romantic or cottage gardens. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, in a fresh, deep, fertile soil, and even in an elevated mountain garden.

The Clematis montana var. rubens 'Pink Perfection' is a semi-woody and climbing perennial plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. This variety is derived from the Clematis montana, native to the Himalayas, an excellent garden plant widely planted in many of our regions. It does not require pruning, or only above a height of 2m (7ft) after flowering. 'Pink Perfection' is characterised by slightly scented flowers, generally square in shape, composed of four pink petals with a lighter edge, fading over time, measuring approximately 5cm (2in) in diameter. It is also distinguished by its well-coloured young leaves of coppery purple, slightly later but particularly abundant flowering. It is a vigorous variety that can easily reach a height of 7m (23ft) and a spread of at least 2m (7ft).

'Pink Perfection' mountain clematis blooms with incredible generosity in May-June. The bisexual flowers are grouped in axillary clusters of 1 to 5 flowers on long pedicels. They appear on the previous year's branches. Their light scent is reminiscent of vanilla and cloves. The flowering is followed by decorative plume-like fruits with a slightly silvery grey colour. The leaves are simple, palmate, with irregularly serrated edges. They are distinctly coloured coppery purple when young, then turn bronze, and finally olive green. This clematis clings to a support or host plant through voluble petioles transformed into tendrils. The deciduous foliage falls in autumn.

Plant your montana clematis alongside your climbing roses to extend the flowering period of your walls and pergolas until the end of summer. The genus Clematis is rich in diversity, with varieties available in all colours, shapes, and sizes, suitable for experienced or beginner gardeners. Choose one of these queen climbers to give your garden a romantic and bohemian touch. 'Pink Perfection', a true spring delight, requires space to fully display its beauty. It will be magnificent in front of the house, entwined around the wrought iron gate that encloses the garden, or on a long staircase railing. It will welcome visitors with its romantic and fragrant flowering. Also, offer it to a dear gardening friend, as this generous clematis is a true gift from nature.

Tips: Avoid excessive fertilisation that stimulates foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Do not mulch to avoid excessive moisture that promotes wilt disease.