When we think of autumn plants for the garden, chrysanthemum, aster, calendula, autumn sedum, and goldenrod come to mind. However, one vine which stages a spectacular show in autumn should not be overlooked.

From late August until October, sweet autumn clematis, Clematis terniflora, a vigorous semi–evergreen or deciduous perennial vine captures attention by producing billowy showers of fragrant 1” white star–like flowers. As the flowers fade, decorative silvery seedheads appear.

The native Japanese vine that can grow 15–30 feet is best supported on arbors, pergola, fences, or trellises. At the Carolina Childrens Garden, autumn clematis covers the arbor entrance to Three Bears Homestead. The dense leaves provide shade in the heat of summer. Some gardeners let the vine ramble as a groundcover to prevent erosion on poor soil.

Autumn clematis prefers well–drained loamy or clay–loamy soils but tolerates sandy conditions. A soil pH of 6.5–7 is preferred. While its foliage loves sun, its roots like shade. Mulching is recommended. Maintain soil moisture throughout the growing season. The hardiness zones for this woody ornamental are 4–9.

Autumn clematis covers the entranceway to the Three Bears Homestead at the Carolina Children’s Garden. The glossy green leaf of the Japanese clematis has smooth margins and is one way to distinguish the nonnative from two native species of autumn clematis with serrated leaves.

The vine has a reputation for being invasive. Pruning back severely in winter helps contain growth. Pruning after flowering prevents self–seeding. The vine is easily propagated by seed, stem cuttings in early summer, and layering in late winter. The plant is a good candidate for a plant exchange.

The plant is usually pest free but can succumb to wilt, rust, powdery mildew, and fungal spots. Leaves need to be monitored for earwigs, whiteflies, aphids, and scale insects.

Autumn clematis stages sensory enchantment in the garden from late August to October. The late–flowering clematis is one of the easiest clematis to grow. The fact that it blooms profusely and is fragrant in fall adds sensory enchantment to the landscape.
The dense leaf cover of autumn clematis shades strategic garden spots.
This vine is between flowering and creating seedheads. Heavy pruning is advised in late winter to control growth.