Clematis 'Early Sensation' (Fo/f)

RHS Plant Profile
clematis 'Early Sensation'

Synonyms

Clematis × cartmanii 'Early Sensation'

Climber Wall Shrub

An evergreen clematis, growing up to 3m tall, with finely-divided leaves, bronze when young and maturing to a dark green. In spring, this cultivar bears a profusion of scented, white, bell to cup-shaped flowers, up to 7.5cm in diameter, each with a greenish-yellow centre

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ranunculaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Trailing
Potentially harmful
Skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (rabbits): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus
Clematis can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or herbaceous perennials, mostly climbing by twining leaf-stalks, and often with showy flowers. Some have attractive fluffy seedheads in autumn
Name Status
Accepted
Horticultural Group
Forsteri Group clematis are dwarf spreading or prostrate evergreen shrubs, usually dioecious, with deeply cut, trifoliate leaves and small cream or white, sometimes fragrant, flowers

How to Grow

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained gritty soil in full sun or part shade with shelter. Plant with the crown at soil level. Can be grown in a container in a cold greenhouse or conservatory. See clematis cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings or layering

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wall side borders
  • Flower borders and beds

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, snails and caterpillars; petals may be eaten by earwigs

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), clematis wilt and clematis slime flux