ground clematis

Plant in a moisture-retentive, well-drained soil. Keep the base of the plant and roots cool and shaded by other plants or a layer of pebbles or flat stones at the base. Plant with the crown of the clematis at soil level. Mulch in late winter with garden compost or well-rotted manure, avoiding the immediate crown. Ideal for a border where it can be supported by other plants

Pruning group 3. Treat more like a herbaceous perennial, taking all stems to ground level just before growth starts in spring

Propagate by division in spring

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

Usually trouble free