Clematis napaulensis

Description

Originating from Nepal and southern China, napaulensis is a fascinating and quite incredible Clematis. Everything about it is unusual, and wonderful!
Clematis napaulensis behaves as though it has somehow been able to reverse the growing season. Its foliage begins to appear in autumn instead of spring and remains lush, dark green throughout the winter and spring, before falling in summer, and the flowers perform the same trick too!
Between November and March, clusters of incredible bell shaped, greenish-white flowers appear, with petals curled at the ends and long dark purple stamens. They carry a lovely, delicate fragrance that lingers in the winter air beautifully, absolutely wonderful during the darkest, coldest time of year. As the flowers fade, large, fluffy seed heads develop and last for several months.
As napaulensis has no leaves or flowers during the summer, it works well growing through other climbers that will disguise its bare stems. Growing in the ground or in a large container, it prefers a sheltered location and even does well in a cool conservatory or greenhouse.
Easy to care for, needing nothing more than a light prune after flowering to keep it in shape, and regular watering and feeding – Clematis are hungry plants. Supplied as a potted plant in a 9cm pot, ready to plant growing to a height of 3m (10ft) and width of 1.5m (5ft).