Raised by Jackmans in 1958, Clematis montana var. rubens 'Elizabeth' holds its own against modern varieties and has been given the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM). Sweetly scented, Clematis ‘Elizabeth’ is a very large deciduous climber with charming, single, pale pink flowers adorned with a satin sheen, 2-3 in.

Understanding the Context

across (5-7 cm), from late spring to early summer. clematis 'Elizabeth' A vigorous very large deciduous climber with bronze young trifoliate leaves, mid green with age. Slightly scented pale pink flowers with a satin sheen to 6cm in width have pale yellow stamens. Flowers late spring to early summer with occasional later flowers.

Key Insights

Soft pink flowers with a vanilla scent and a very vigorous grower. Montana Clematis varieties are probably the easiest to grow, very prolific blooming and some of the most vigorous growers. Best for zone 5 and south. All varieties bloom May and June. Pruning type 1.

Final Thoughts

This Clematis is easy to grow in a moist but well-drained soil of average fertility and full sun to part shade. Though it tolerates dry periods when established, it will appreciate an occasional watering in prolonged periods of dry weather. Soft pink flowers with a vanilla scent, these vigorous growers are probably the easiest to grow. Covered in May and June with a profusion of 3-inch pink flowers, this cultivar is the most fragrant of all the montanas, and in full bloom the surrounding air is filled with sweet vanilla fragrance.