Herbaceous Clematis: the most beautiful white-flowered varieties

Clematis - Clematis integrifolia 'Hakuree'

The Clematis ‘Hakuree’ is a Japanese horticultural variety, derived from the European species Clematis integrifolia. This herbaceous, not particularly climbing clematis is characterised by a spreading habit and a long, abundant summer flowering. The flowers, long campanulate bells, exude a delicate gardenia-like fragrance, with notes ranging from pure white to white tinged with mauve-blue that vary with temperature.

Forming a bushy clump about 75 cm tall with an 80 cm spread, ‘Hakuree’ is a perennial with slow initial growth, which establishes a deep root system to accelerate growth in subsequent years. In spring, new leafy shoots appear bearing small oval to elliptical leaves in deep green. From June to August, the campanulate flowers, comprising four long petals and slightly twisted, measure 4–5 cm in length and conceal stamens with yellow anthers.

Ideal for pots, hanging baskets or borders, this clematis tolerates well-drained soils and sunny exposures that are not scorching. It pairs harmoniously with roses and summer-flowering shrubs. Planted at the edge of a border, in a rock garden or on a low wall, ‘Hakuree’ brings a touch of romance and bohemian charm, among perennial salvias, valerian and Nepeta.

Clematis - Clematis mandshurica

The Clematis mandshurica is a botanical species native to China. This herbaceous perennial, better known for its ground-covering habit than for its climbing abilities, is characterised by a generous flowering consisting of small white star-shaped flowers, emanating a delicate fragrance reminiscent of hawthorn or anise. These flowers bloom from June to August, even into September, creating a dense carpet on the long stems that can extend 3 to 4 metres.

The Clematis mandshurica thrives in fertile soil, with a pH from neutral to slightly acidic, and requires a sunny to partly shaded exposure with the crown protected from direct sun. It is hardy to cold and frost but requires well-drained soil to avoid standing moisture. The leafy, deciduous stems, bearing dark green lanceolate leaves, form an excellent backdrop for the panicles of white flowers about 2 to 3 cm in diameter with slightly greenish stamens.

This clematis is ideal for draping over privet hedges or over topiaries of Lonicera nitida, bringing brightness and texture. It integrates perfectly into a border dedicated to white or pastel colours. In containers, it can also brighten a terrace or balcony.

Clematis - Clematis recta 'Purpurea'

The herbaceous clematis Clematis recta‘Purpurea’ is a creeping variety that captures attention even before its flowers open. Its purple, delicate and fine foliage is a real draw in any garden, offering a striking contrast with clouds of small fragrant white flowers that appear later in the season. These flowers are not only lovely to look at, but also prized for use in bridal bouquets, thanks to their ethereal beauty and their delicate fragrance.

This clematis prefers cool, well-drained soil where it can truly thrive. Flexible in its growth habit, it can be left to creep along the ground, guided along shrubs, or stake-trained for a more structured display.

Particularly suited to planting in front of shrubs, Clematis recta ‘Purpurea’ creates a colour and texture contrast that enhances the appeal of both plants.

Clematis - Clematis integrifolia 'Baby White'

The Clematis ‘Baby White’® is a charming form of the Clematis integrifolia, exhibiting all the qualities of a perennial with the advantage of extended summer flowering. It features small white bells that curl back and tilt, exhaling a subtle fragrance and presenting a delicate porcelain-like texture. After flowering, this clematis bears silky, silvery fruits that brighten the garden long after the flowering season.

‘Baby White’ is an herbaceous, compact clematis, perfect for small spaces and flowering containers. This herbaceous variety forms a compact clump about 50 cm tall and wide, with stems and leaves, ovate to elliptical, in a deep, glossy green. The flowers, appearing from June to September, consist of four petals fused at the base and slightly twisted, measuring 3–4 cm in diameter with yellow-anthered stamens nestled in a bluish throat.

Well suited to a range of growing conditions, ‘Baby White’ thrives in sunny spots but also tolerates semi-shaded locations. It is drought-tolerant once well established. In addition to its use in borders and beds, its flowers are also highly sought after for cut flower arrangements.

For a harmonious garden, pair ‘Baby White’ with hardy geraniums, ground ivy or small-flowered periwinkles, for example, to create an enchanting display on a balcony or a slope.

Clematis - Clematis integrifolia 'Alba'

Clematis integrifolia ‘Alba’ also stands out from other clematises for its ground-covering habit, suited to covering the soil in your garden.

From June to August, it produces campanulate flowers in a brilliant white with a yellow-green heart of stamens. The flowering stems rise proudly to a height of up to 50 cm, while the dark green, deciduous, creeping and spreading foliage forms a lush carpet beneath the flowers.

During its first year of growth, Clematis integrifolia ‘Alba’ may require careful attention to establishing itself, but once its roots are well established, it becomes a robust, suckering plant that spreads easily. It thrives in rich, cool and well-drained soils, and for maximum flowering it prefers to be planted in a sunny spot. However, it is important to shield it from excessively strong sun, which can be too intense and drying for its delicate flowers.

Ideal for borders or for covering banks, Clematis integrifolia ‘Alba’ blends harmoniously with other perennial plants such as euphorbias. It is an excellent choice for natural gardens and semi-shaded areas where it can spread unhindered, offering a rich floral display all summer.