Clematis montana 'Alexander' (M)

Plant in a moisture-retentive, well-drained soil, with the roots and base of the plant kept cool and shaded by other plants or a layer of pebbles at the base. Plant with the crown 5-8cm (2-3in) deep to encourage shoots to grow from below ground level. Best in a sheltered sunny situation

Propagate by layering or semi-hardwood cuttings

Young shoots may be susceptible to damage by aphids and caterpillars; petals can be eaten by earwigs

May be susceptible to clematis slime flux