Clematis cirrhosa 'Freckles' (Freckles Winter Clematis)

Sun to Part SunZone: 7b-9, at least 240" tall Origin: Mediterranean Europe, Portugal

This Balearic Islands form of the winter-flowering clematis was a seed selection from the UK's clematis guru, Ray Evison. Introduced in 1989, Clematis 'Freckles' goes completely dormant in the summer months and only begins re-leafing in early October and starts flowering a few weeks later. The glossy dark green leaves serve as the perfect backdrop for the 2" pendulous cream flowers that are heavily speckled with red-purple. The delightful seed heads remain on the plant for long periods after flowering. Although it is native in scrubby woodlands, we have found that a sunny western exposure works best. Pot size: 24 fl. oz (709.77 ml)