Armandii Snowdrift Clematis armandi 'Snowdrift' (Ar)

Water

The Clematis armandii 'Snowdrift,' commonly known as evergreen clematis, should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage a strong root system. Generally, during the growing season, it requires about 1 gallon of water once a week. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. During hot, dry periods, increase watering to twice a week. In winter, reduce the amount to only when the soil is dry to the touch, as the plant's water requirements decrease during dormancy.

Light

Evergreen clematis thrives best in a spot where it receives full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should have its roots in cool, shaded soil, with its vines climbing towards the sun. Locations that provide morning sunlight and afternoon shade are perfect, as too much intense heat can damage the plant.

Temperature

Evergreen clematis prefers temperate climates and can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F, although it will cease growing below this point. It flourishes when the temperature is between 55°F and 75°F, which provides optimal growing conditions. Extreme heat above 85°F may stress the plant and extra care should be taken to ensure adequate watering during these periods.

Pruning

Evergreen clematis benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and encourage a robust display of flowers. It should be pruned lightly after flowering in early spring to remove any dead or weak stems. Major pruning is rarely necessary; however, if the plant becomes too large, it can be cut back by about a third of its size in late winter or early spring. Pruning at this time minimizes impact on flowering since this plant blooms on old wood.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

Evergreen Clematis prefers a well-draining soil mix with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.5. A good mix would consist of loam, compost, and well-rotted manure to provide nutrients and improve soil structure, with some perlite or vermiculite for aeration. Mulching around the base with organic matter will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Repotting

Evergreen Clematis typically does not need to be repotted often; repotting every 3 to 4 years should suffice. When repotting, choose a container only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid excess soil moisture, which can lead to root rot.

Humidity & Misting

Evergreen Clematis is adaptable but prefers a moderate humidity level. While it can tolerate some variation, consistently high humidity can promote fungal diseases, so good air circulation should be maintained to keep humidity around the plant in balance.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool roots, and moist soil.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to part shade, mulch roots, support for climbing.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis armandi 'Snowdrift', commonly known as Armand's clematis, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, upon germinating in suitable moist, well-drained soil conditions and with adequate warmth, will produce a small seedling. As the seedling establishes its root system, it enters a vegetative growth stage characterized by the development of leaves and trailing or climbing stems which are used by the plant to reach for sunlight. Over time, this evergreen vine matures and starts the flowering stage, usually in the spring, producing fragrant, creamy white flowers that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers develop into fruit-like structures called achenes, which are each equipped with a plumose tail that facilitates wind dispersal. When dispersed, the achenes settle in new locations where conditions allow, and upon successful germination, the cycle begins anew. Throughout its adult life, Armand's clematis experiences repeated cycles of growth and dormancy annually, with flowering occurring typically once a year.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• For the Evergreen Clematis (Clematis armandii 'Snowdrift'), the most popular method of propagation is through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is in late summer or early fall when the current season's growth has started to mature but is not yet fully hardened. You'll want to select a healthy stem and cut a section about 4 to 6 inches long, ensuring there are at least two sets of leaves or nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix or a mixture of peat and perlite, burying it deep enough so it stands upright. The cutting should be kept moist and in a warm place with indirect sunlight. Roots typically develop within a few weeks to months, after which the new Evergreen Clematis can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions and eventually transplanted into the garden.