7 Perfect Clematis for Pots

7 Perfect Clematis for Pots

Colourful flowers on a balcony or terrace

Contents

Modified the 2 October 2025  by Patricia 5 min.

No need to have a large garden to bring a bit of greenery and cheer to your outdoor spaces: on a terrace or balcony, you can easily plant clematis in pots. Some varieties are particularly well-suited for this: to achieve the best possible results, it is essential to adhere to certain guidelines regarding exposure or the space allocated to each young plant, for example. We offer a focus on 7 very interesting varieties to adorn your terrace or balcony.

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn Difficulty

Clematis ‘Little White Charm’, lovely and fragrant

Among the various clematis suitable for pots that you can plant on your terrace, we can mention Clematis armandii ‘Little White Charm’. From the arrival of spring, it produces lovely small white flowers that are subtly fragrant.

The fragrance released by the ‘Little White Charm’ clematis offers a delicate blend of vanilla and orange blossom, two scents that are particularly cherished. Note that this species should be planted in clay-loam soil, which is generally rich and light, while also being fresh and humus-bearing.

How can one resist the fragrance of the Little White Charm clematis?

Clematis ‘Little White Charm’

Clematis Asao, a distinctive star-shaped form

Certain varieties of clematis are not suitable for pot planting, as they are too large. Therefore, in terms of tips for planting clematis in pots, we always emphasise the importance of choosing more compact varieties that do not exceed 2 metres in height.

The Clematis Asao can be introduced onto a balcony or terrace, as this Japanese variety never exceeds 2.5 metres in height – and generally reaches a smaller size at ripeness. Although it does not climb as high as some other varieties, Clematis Asao remains very floriferous: between May and September, you can enjoy a wonderful display thanks to the unfolding of flowers with 6 to 8 elliptical and pointed tepals. On average, each flower measures about fifteen centimetres in diameter.

Clematis Asao in star shape enhances your balcony

Clematis Asao

These clematis can be planted with climbing roses to keep a balcony in bloom throughout the year. Be sure to drain the bottom of the pot by consistently applying a layer of gravel or clay balls before adding the potting soil mixed with compost.

Discover other Clematis

Clematis ‘Arabella’ bears stunning blue flowers.

With its large flowers that range from dark blue to light blue, Clematis diversifolia ‘Arabella’ easily colours and enhances a balcony in both urban and rural settings. Very generous, this species showcases large, star-shaped flowers in vibrant and striking hues from June to September.

The blue of the Arabella clematis colours your outdoor spaces

Clematis diversifolia ‘Arabella’

You can plant your clematis ‘Arabella’ in spring or autumn, favouring a position that allows the top to bask in sunlight while keeping the base protected (for example, with a tile). If necessary, you can add a stake in the pot to assist the growth of your clematis. Subsequently, simply guide the stems towards the stake, possibly tying them with raffia – before the clematis naturally clings to the support!

Clematis cirrhosa 'Advent Bells', a delicate species perfect for pots

If you are looking for clematis for a balcony, you can confidently rely on Clematis cirrhosa ‘Advent Bells’. In fact, it is a variety that is not very hardy and is sensitive to cold. This is why it is particularly suited for growth in pots: you can bring it indoors or into your conservatory during winter to protect it from frost.

Aside from this weakness to cold, clematis cirrhosa ‘Advent Bells’ remains a plant that is easy to grow and does not require much effort, especially as it tolerates drought well and thrives in various types of soils (clay-loamy, stony, dry).

An easy-to-maintain Advent Bells clematis for the balcony

Clematis ‘Advent Bells’

Fairly resistant to diseases, this clematis, like all other varieties, is quite nutrient-hungry. In this regard, it is recommended to apply fertiliser from the second year, in spring. The substrate tends to dry out faster in pots than in the ground, which is why watering should be more regular in summer.

Clematis Destiny and its unique purity

With its bright white flowers, the Clematis Destiny gives an impression of purity, while presenting itself as a species that is both understated and refined. From May onwards, star-shaped flowers appear, featuring crinkled petals and a heart of purplish-brown anthers.

Using white flowers undeniably brings light to a relatively dark terrace or balcony. Additionally, these clematis pair wonderfully with other more colourful varieties, such as the Clematis ‘New Love’ in purple or the Clematis ‘Star of Pakistan’ in pink, for example.

Clematis Destiny

Clematis ‘Little Mermaid’ and its indulgent pink

The candy pink of the Clematis ‘Little Mermaid’ echoes our fondest childhood memories. This round and harmonious flower is also appreciated for its ability to change colour over the weeks and months.

Indeed, the flowers start off double and pink, then turn salmon, before fading and taking on a bluish hue… A colourful spectacle that never gets old year after year. During the first few weeks after planting, you will need to water your clematis quite often, ensuring that the pot is perfectly drained (for example, place a layer of clay pebbles at the bottom).

The candy pink of Clematis Little Mermaid appeals to many

Clematis ‘Little Mermaid’

Clematis Mrs. Georges Jackman, featuring unusual satin-like petals

All clematis have their arguments to showcase their elegance. But Clematis ‘Mrs. Georges Jackman’ undoubtedly excels in this area. Indeed, it features large, slightly satin cream flowers, with light brown anthers that enhance the beauty of the contrast.

Refinement with clematis Mrs. Georges Jackman

Clematis ‘Mrs. Georges Jackman’

This variety is ideal for pot cultivation: it does not exceed 2.5 metres in height with a spread of about 1 metre. It is important to note that this clematis does not appreciate high heat and dry spells: plant it in the shade, and do not hesitate to bring the pots indoors during heatwaves. Finally, opt for a large pot, using good quality horticultural compost.

Potted clematis come in all shapes and colours: you can place them wherever you like, depending on their needs and the weather. Don’t miss out on this beautiful clematis to brighten up your balcony!

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