clematis [Queen Mother]

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 new shoots to grow from below ground level. See clematis cultivation

Propagate by layering or semi-hardwood cuttings

Young shoots may be troubled by aphids and caterpillars; petals can be eaten by earwigs

Clematis wilt and clematis slime flux may be a problem