Rubens Clematis

Rubens Clematis (Clematis montana 'Rubens') is a vigorous, deciduous climber that grows 6m to 8m tall and about 2m wide. In spring it is covered in medium-sized, pale pink, four-petalled flowers, often followed by whiskery seedheads in autumn. It is frost hardy, fast growing and easy going, and it gives a pergola or cottage garden a romantic, old-fashioned look.

Why you'll love it

• Spring masses of pale pink. Four-petalled flowers cover the stems in spring, so a bare pergola or fence turns soft pink almost overnight.
• Quick cover. It is a fast grower, which makes it one of the best ways to dress a new arbour, pergola or fence.
• Frost hardy. Cold winters suit this deciduous vine, which sheds its leaves and restarts each spring.
• Autumn seedheads. The flowers are often followed by whiskery seedheads that give it a second season of interest.
• Not fussy about soil. Any soil is suitable, and it grows well even in alkaline ground.

Where it works best

Pergolas and arbours. Plant at the base of a sturdy structure that can carry 6m to 8m of growth. In a few seasons it forms a flowering canopy overhead.

Fence lines. Plant 2m apart along a fence fitted with wires or trellis. Annual pruning keeps it in check in smaller gardens.

Cottage garden supports. Train it up a strong support in the middle of a flower bed for a romantic, vintage effect, with low perennials planted around its base.

Growing Rubens Clematis in Australia

Position and climate. Plant in a sunny, open position with plenty of space to climb. It is frost hardy, and as a deciduous vine from cooler regions it performs best where winters are properly cold, so cool temperate, Mediterranean and warm temperate gardens suit it best. Frost-free subtropical gardens are a poorer match.

Soil. Any soil is suitable. Clematis perform better with cool roots, so plant groundcovers or low perennials at the base, or mulch generously.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly for around 12 weeks, until the plant is established. Apply a slow release fertiliser during spring.

Pruning. Prune after flowering to keep it in check. Annual pruning keeps it to a size a smaller garden can handle, and cutting straight after the spring flowers protects next year's buds.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Rubens Clematis as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Expect a slender young vine on arrival. Give it a wire or trellis from the day it goes in and it will start to climb as the weather warms.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse climbers
• Climbers and groundcover plants
• Frost hardy plants
• Frost tolerant plants in Australia

Common questions

How big does Rubens get?

About 6m to 8m tall and 2m wide if left alone. Annual pruning after flowering holds it to a size that a smaller garden can manage.

When should I prune it?

Straight after the spring flowers finish. Pruning later in the year removes buds for next spring.

Is it safe for pets?

No. Clematis is irritating and toxic if chewed, so it is not a pet friendly plant. Keep dogs and cats away from the stems.