Description
CLEMATIS cirrhosa var. purpurascens ‘Freckles’ is a rare gem among CLEMATIS: an evergreen climber that flowers in the coldest months. Its nodding, bell-shaped blooms appear from late autumn through winter into early spring, offering pale yellow petals heavily speckled with deep red. These distinctive flowers are followed by silky seed-heads that add further seasonal interest. This variety is best grown against a south or west-facing wall, where its evergreen foliage and winter blooms can be protected and appreciated. It’s especially valuable in wildlife-friendly gardens, offering nectar and pollen when few other plants are in flower.
Key Features:
Propagation method: Vegetative soft-wood cuttings.
Substrate: Jiffy peat-free propagation Mix.
Plug Size: 3.5cm.
Production system: Grown without artificial light or heating for hardened plants.
Flowers: Pale yellow with heavy red speckling; nodding, bell-shaped flowers up to 10cm wide.
Foliage: Evergreen, divided, lobed and toothed glossy dark green leaves tinged bronze in winter.
Flowering period: November to March.
Height: Up-to 350cm at maturity.
Spread: Up-to 200cm at maturity.
Hardiness: Hardy in most UK regions.
Pollinator value: Highly attractive to bees and beneficial insects.
Sensory value: Ideal for SEND gardens and therapeutic planting schemes.
Ecological impact: Grown in peat-free substrate with no artificial inputs, pollinator and wildlife-friendly.
Awards: RHS Award of Garden Merit for reliability, ornamental value, and strong garden performance.
Planting & Care:
Prefers full sun or light shade & moist but well‑drained alkaline to neutral soils.
Mulch in autumn to protect roots in colder climates.
Prune lightly to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Ideal for containers, covering fences, pergolas, arches, and Pollinator/Wildlife-friendly planting schemes.
Commercial Notes:
CLEMATIS ‘Freckles’ are supplied as strong, well-rooted, hardy plug plants ready for potting into pots up-to 2lt formats.
Ideal for nursery, and wholesale formats and performs well in peat-free and organic programs.
Suitable for wildlife-friendly, and sustainable product ranges.
