Clematis montana Freda A charming, but large, montana clematis, Clematis Freda is a vigorous, hardy, deciduous climber, ideal for covering a sturdy shed or wall; it will need some support. The typical clematis leaves are tripartite, and bronze-tinted as they emerge. The pretty flowers are single with four rounded petals , and a deep, cherry pink with cream stamens; they appear in May and early June. Plant quite deeply (2-3 ½ ”/5-8cm) to encourage shoots from the base, and cover the base with other plants or a layer of gravel or stones to keep the roots cool. Needs minimal pruning, but can be sheared down if it gets out of hand. Clematis Freda holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Site: Tolerates exposureSoil: Any well drained, alkaline to neutral soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeSeason of interest: Late spring and early summer in particularHardiness: Very hardyHeight: 13-26’ (4-8m) Spread: 8-13’ (2.5-4m) in 2-5 years Photo by Marilyn Peddle and licensed under CC BY 2.0.