Clematis terniflora DC.

var. terniflora

Native of Japan, Korea and China; discovered by Thunberg, who lived in that country in the last quarter of the eighteenth century. He named it C. paniculata, under which name it has long been known in gardens, but this name had, unfortunately, been used a few years earlier for the New Zealand clematis better known as C. indivisa.

This clematis has never been largely planted in the British Isles, for, although hardy and vigorous enough, it rarely flowers with freedom, and usually too late in the season to develop well. In the eastern United States, on the other hand, it is one of the most beautiful and wonderful of climbing plants, producing its pure white flowers in marvellous profusion. In Britain it lacks, no doubt, sufficient summer sun to bring out its best qualities, and would be happiest against a south wall. It is an ally of C. flammula, but much more vigorous.

Autumn-flowering Clematis terniflora is a garden classic in Eastern North America, but flowers less freely where summers are cooler. After a warm summer, a young plant in Britain puts on a reasonable show (Coleton Fishacre, Devon, UK; 16 September 2025). Image Julian Sutton.

Clematis terniflora flowers and leaves; note the very long petiolules (Coleton Fishacre, Devon, UK; 16 September 2025). Image Julian Sutton.