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I am looking for native woodland clematis and honeysuckle that grow to about 2- 3 metres, semi shade and no pruning, summer flowering. Am I too demanding ? I am new to gardening so I might sound a bit simple here so am willing to take any advice. Thanks




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When you say 'woodland' clematis, I take that to mean you want a clematis that will do well in shadier conditions? Also note that, unless you're just going to get hold of some Traveller's Joy (native Clematis vitalba) and let it run rampant without pruning, most clematis do require some pruning, in particular, the group that flowers from end of June through to late autumn, but that pruning consists merely of remembering to chop it down to about 6/8 inches from the ground in winter, before the middle of February. There is a middle group that doesn't require pruning - these produce large flowers in about May or June, followed by a second lot of smaller flowers about 6 weeks later. One in the first group that would like those conditions is Clematis Hagley Hybrid, with delicate shell pink flowers, but it does need the annual cut down. From the no prune group, there are several - Niobe; The President; William Kennett, Sealand Gem, Lady Northcliffe.

As for the honeysuckle, they do prefer full sun, but a little shade shouldn't be too problematic - have a look at Lonicera belgica and Lonicera serotina. If its a little bit more shady, then maybe Lonicera Dropmore Scarlet is a better choice, though this one is particularly prone to mildew.

The other thing to note is that unless you're just going to let the clematis ramble through existing shrubs, it will need specific support in the form of clematis mesh or wire netting. Trellis is no good for clematis because it isn't a twiner, but will work well for honeysuckle, which is. Make sure the trellis is very strong and rigid, not that concertina diamond shaped stuff, or it'll break with the honeysuckle over it fairly quickly.

If you really want a native, woodland clematis, check out Lonicera periclymenum - its okay, but not particularly stunning.

8 Sep, 2014

 

Oops Bamboo, typo in the last paragraph!! Spot the rogue word...

8 Sep, 2014

 

Ah, yes, thanks - Lonicera periclymenum is a honeysuckle, and absolutely NOT a clematis!

9 Sep, 2014

 

Thanks for the comprehensive reply. I now know what to do and what to look for.

9 Sep, 2014

How do I say thanks?

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