Sweet Autumn Clematis

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

10-20 Feet

Mature Spread

2-3 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 9

Clematis Terniflora is often referred to as “Sweet Autumn Clematis” because it is smothered in sweet-smelling white flowers from August through September. Bees and hummingbirds love these fragrant flowers as much as gardeners. Sweet Autumn clematis is well known for its prolific blooms, vigorous growth, and ability to thrive in shadier locations than other clematis varieties. This is a lively grower that can quickly climb its way up an arbor, trellis, or tall support.

Plant this showy vine where you can enjoy its sweet aroma, like a patio, deck, or entryway arbor. Make sure it has plenty of room for its 10-20’ of growth, as well as a support structure that it can climb. Clematis Terniflora is a perennial vine in Zones 4-9. It is also deer and rabbit resistant.

Sweet Autumn Clematis Care

Plant Clematis terniflora in well-drained soil that is moderate-to-moist. Avoid overwatering and apply mulch annually to retain soil moisture. Apply a layer of compost or well-balanced fertilizer in early spring. Provide a large, sturdy support structure or trellis for its 10-20’ of potential height. Terniflora can thrive in shadier conditions than other clematis.

Prune this Group 3 clematis variety down to a foot every fall, late winter or early spring. It blooms on new growth, and requires pruning to bloom to its full potential. Prune throughout the season to keep it small. Trim back old flowers for continued bloom.

Sweet Autumn Clematis Spacing

Sweet Autumn Clematis is a vigorous vine that requires a good amount of room for its growth. Plant it 2’ away from other plants and make sure the vines have something to climb on to avoid overtaking nearby plants.