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Sweet Autumn Clematis

Clematis terniflora

  • Intoxicating Fragrance Blooms Late Summer Through Fall When Few Vines Flower
  • Heat Tolerant: Thrives in Zones 5-9
  • Showy White Blooms From Late Summer to Late Fall
  • Deer Resistant, Disease Resistant
  • Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Bees
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: This vigorous climber thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for the best flower production. While it tolerates more shade than most clematis, less sun usually results in fewer of those iconic vanilla-scented white blooms.
  • Soil: Aim for rich, well-drained soil that stays consistently moist but not soggy. If you have heavy clay, mix in organic compost to improve drainage, as "wet feet" can lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, provide 1 inch of water per week to help the root system establish itself deep in the soil. Once mature, Sweet Autumn Clematis is quite drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during the hottest weeks can lead to crispy leaf edges and smaller flower clusters. Think of regular watering as fuel for that massive late-season growth spurt.

Pruning Tips

This variety blooms on new wood, meaning it produces flowers on the stems that grow during the current season. In late winter or very early spring, cut the entire plant back to about 12 inches above the ground to prevent it from becoming a tangled, woody mess. This "hard prune" acts like a reset button, encouraging fresh, vigorous vines and keeping the fragrant flowers at eye level.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 formula) in early spring just as new growth begins to emerge. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because this encourages lush green leaves at the expense of flower production. Excess nitrogen late in the year also prevents the plant from hardening off properly before the first frost.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50 $9.99
$50 - $99.99 $14.99
$100 - $149.99 $16.99
$150 - $198.99 $24.99
$199+ FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Fragrant, Flowering, Groundcover, Attracts pollinators, Cold hardy, Drought resistant, Fast-growing
Hardiness Zone 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Height 20-30 ft
Width 10-20 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Clay, Loamy
Growth Rate Fast
Growth Habit Bushy, Climbing, Spreading
Plant Life Cycle Perennial
Blooms In Fall, Summer
Flower Color White
Foliage Color Green
Fall Color Yellow
Fragrant Yes
Native Yes
Pet Safety Toxic to pets
Suitable Space Outdoors
Plant Name Clematis
Botanical Name Clematis terniflora
Species terniflora
Class Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, OR, PR

Frequently Asked Questions

Can sweet autumn clematis grow in a pot?

  • Sweet autumn clematis can grow in containers, but it's a very vigorous vine that quickly outgrows most pots. Its aggressive growth habit makes it better suited for permanent garden plantings where it can spread freely. If container growing, use a very large pot and be prepared to prune heavily to control size.

How to prune clematis in the fall?

  • Sweet Autumn Clematis is Pruning Group 3, meaning you cut it back hard in late winter or early spring, not fall. This vigorous vine blooms on new wood, so severe pruning encourages abundant flowers. Leave the feathery seed heads for winter interest, then prune to 12-18 inches in February. Shop pruning tools at naturehills.com.

How big does Sweet Autumn Clematis get at maturity (height and width)?

  • Sweet Autumn Clematis is a vigorous vine that can reach 15-30 feet in height and spread 6-10 feet wide at maturity. This fast-growing perennial quickly covers sturdy structures with its mounded growth habit. Provide strong support like arbors or fences to accommodate its substantial size.

What are the sunlight requirements for Sweet Autumn Clematis (full sun, part shade, etc.)?

  • Sweet Autumn Clematis thrives in full sun but tolerates some shade. This vigorous vine performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and fragrance. Plant in a sunny location for the most abundant blooms from late summer through fall.

What type of soil does Sweet Autumn Clematis prefer?

  • Sweet Autumn Clematis thrives in well-draining soil and tolerates a wide range of soil types. This vigorous vine adapts to various conditions while maintaining its incredible fragrance and abundant white blooms. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, and shop at Nature Hills for healthy plants.

How often should I water Sweet Autumn Clematis after planting?

  • Water Sweet Autumn Clematis deeply once or twice weekly during its first growing season to establish strong roots. This vigorous vine is quite drought tolerant once established. Reduce watering frequency after the first year, watering only during extended dry periods.

Does Sweet Autumn Clematis need fertilizer, and when?

  • Sweet Autumn Clematis thrives with minimal feeding due to its vigorous nature. A balanced fertilizer in early spring supports healthy growth, but avoid over-fertilizing as this can reduce flowering. Apply compost annually for best results.

Is Sweet Autumn Clematis cold hardy and does it need winter protection?

  • Sweet Autumn Clematis tolerates cold winters and doesn't require winter protection in most growing zones. This vigorous vine is naturally cold hardy and will die back to the ground in winter, then regrow vigorously each spring. Simply leave the structure in place for next year's growth.

What is the warranty or guarantee if the Sweet Autumn Clematis arrives damaged or dies?

  • Nature Hills offers a one-year warranty on all plants, including Sweet Autumn Clematis, covering arrival damage and establishment issues. This vigorous vine is exceptionally hardy and rarely fails when planted properly. Contact customer service immediately if your clematis arrives damaged or fails to establish within the first growing season.

Is Sweet Autumn Clematis prone to diseases like clematis wilt or pests?

  • Sweet Autumn Clematis is remarkably disease-resistant and rarely suffers from clematis wilt that affects other clematis varieties. Its vigorous nature and simple care requirements make it naturally pest-resistant. Focus on providing good air circulation and avoid overwatering to maintain its robust health.

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