Clematis Guernsey Cream

Clematis Guernsey Cream

Why Buy Me?

• Early flowering
• Large single flowers

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. Prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for best flower production. In hot regions, some afternoon shade helps preserve the creamy white flower colour, which can fade in intense sun.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Grows well in loamy or sandy soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay soils that may cause root rot.

Exposure:
Performs well in sunny, sheltered borders or trained against walls, fences, pergolas, or obelisks. Protect roots from heat by shading the base with mulch or low-growing plants.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Requires regular watering during dry spells. Once established, tolerates occasional drought, though consistent moisture improves flowering performance.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring after the last frost, or in autumn in milder regions to allow roots to establish before winter.

Spacing:
Allow 1–1.5 m (3–5 ft) between plants or from other climbers. Grows to a mature height of 1.8–2.5 m (6–8 ft) with support.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during the growing season. Apply a high-potash fertilizer in spring and again in midsummer to encourage prolonged flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent excessive leaf growth at the expense of blooms.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring to retain moisture, protect roots, and suppress weeds.
Pruning group 2:

• Light prune in late winter or early spring (February–March) to remove dead or weak growth.

• After first flowering (late spring), a second light prune can stimulate reblooming in late summer.

Propagation:
Propagate by softwood or semi-ripe cuttings in late spring or summer. Layering is another effective method. Named cultivars should be propagated vegetatively to preserve their unique flower characteristics.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Fresh foliage emerges early. The first flush of large, creamy-white flowers with pale green undertones and golden stamens begins in late spring (May–June).

Summer:
Second flowering may occur in late summer (August–September) if plants are lightly pruned after first bloom. Flowers are 10–15 cm wide and fade to pure white as they mature.

Autumn:
Second bloom may continue into early autumn with proper care. Leaves may yellow before dropping.

Winter:
Deciduous. Dies back in winter; prune lightly before the new growth starts in late winter or early spring.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Provides seasonal vertical shelter for insects.

Garden Use:
A compact climber ideal for small gardens, patios, and container planting. Perfect for training on trellises, obelisks, arches, or sunny walls. Blends well into cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, and formal borders.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with pastel or dark-coloured clematis (e.g. ‘Niobe’ or ‘Etoile Violette’), climbing roses, and perennials like Nepeta, Salvia, Allium, or Hardy Geraniums. The soft creamy blooms provide elegant contrast to deep blues, purples, or rich pinks.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Clematis Guernsey Cream. It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.