Clematis Sanssouci

'Sanssouci' Clematis is a brand new variety of Clematis montana that comes to us from Germany: it is named after the former summer residence of King Frederick II of Prussia, the Sanssouci Palace. It is often described as a smaller but more floriferous version of 'Tetrarose', with early spring flowering in a deep pink-lilac shade, and the scent of carnation, as well as its beautiful bronze-green foliage. This lovely hardy climber is better suited to small spaces and perfect for romantic or English gardens. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, in moist, deep, fertile soil, and even in a medium altitude garden.

Clematis 'Sanssouci' is a semi-woody, climbing perennial plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family, introduced in Germany in 2012. This variety will reach 4 to 5m (13 to 16ft) high in a few years, with a minimum spread of 2m² (21.5sq ft). It is derived from the Clematis montana, native to the Himalayas, an excellent garden plant extensively used in many regions. Like its parent, it does not require pruning, or only to reduce its height to 2m (7ft), after flowering.

This Clematis produces small, single flowers with a diameter of 4 to 6 cm (1.6 to 2in), which bloom abundantly in April-May. The flowers are grouped in axillary clusters of 1 to 5 flowers on long pedicels on the previous year's branches. They have 4 round to ovate tepals, gracefully open in a star shape with a yellow stamen centre. Their colour is a shade of lilac-tinged pink, and their spicy and sweet fragrance resembles carnations. The flowers are followed by decorative, feathery, grayish-silver seed heads. The leaves are simple, palmate, with irregularly toothed edges, reddish when young, then bronze green, in perfect harmony with the slightly faded pink flowers. This Clematis attaches itself to a support or host plant through twining petioles transformed into tendrils.

Plant Clematis montana alongside your climbing roses to extend the flowering of your walls and pergolas until the end of summer. The Clematis genus is rich in diversity, with varieties available in all colours, shapes, and sizes, suitable for experienced gardeners and beginners. Choose one of these beautiful climbers to give your garden a romantic and bohemian touch. 'Sanssouci', a true spring joy, easily fits in a modest-sized garden, for example on a trellis, ballustrade, pergola, or in a hedge. It makes a perfect gift for a gardening friend.

Tips: Avoid excessive fertiliser that stimulates foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Do not mulch, as excessive moisture can promote clematis wilt.