Growing Sweet Autumn Clematis

Relish this fragrant climber, but keep its aggressive nature in check.

Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora)

Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora)

Sweet autumn clematis offers masses of fragrant creamy white blooms in August and September.

Sweet autumn clematis offers masses of fragrant creamy white blooms in August and September.

Just when you thought there wasn’t much excitement left in the garden as summer gives way to fall comes a nice surprise filled with knockout beauty and fragrance. Sweet autumn clematis (Clematis paniculata, Clematis terniflora) is one of the late-blooming clematis vines that features not only flowers different from most clematis, but also an unusually heady scent.

Small, pure white flowers emerge in August and September and by fall, become a silvery mass of fluffy seed heads. A prolific grower as well as bloomer, it can “take over” if left unchecked, so sweet autumn clematis is considered somewhat invasive by many. But when properly maintained, the vine can be a well-behaved asset to the garden at a time of year when pretty much everything else has stopped blooming. 

This deciduous vine, hardy to zone 4, has small light green leaves when new growth emerges in spring. As temperatures rise, it rapidly puts out rampant growth, reaching 30 feet, which makes it an ideal choice for covering fences and sheds. A twining vine, it loves a support it can latch on to, such as chain link. Sweet autumn clematis blooms on new wood, and by mid-summer tiny buds begin to emerge.

Most varieties of clematis will tolerate part shade, but this one seems to thrive on it. Like other clematis, it prefers well-drained soil and “cool feet,” so keep soil at its base mulched or shaded by annuals or other plants. All clematis are heavy feeders; give them a low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as 5-10-10, in spring. Despite its reputation as a tough guy, sweet autumn is susceptible to fungi which can cause the vine to suddenly wilt and turn brown without much warning. Prune out dead growth and disinfect pruners with a bleach solution.

As temperatures begin to drop in late summer and early fall, fragrant plants seem to resume center stage for one last performance before winter returns, and this is when sweet autumn clematis steals the show. Its showy, creamy white blooms are particularly sweet in early morning and late evening,  sometimes lasting until the first frost.

Once the show’s over, it’s time to get a grip on this aggressive guy. Prune it hard—some suggest to as little as 12 inches from the ground—so that you’ll stay ahead of its game come next spring!

Next Up

Mums 101: When To Plant and How To Grow Chrysanthemums

Mums can give you color until the cold comes. Here’s how to make the queen of autumn gardens thrive.

When to Plant Bulbs

Not sure when to plant spring bulbs? Take the guesswork out of knowing when to plant tulips and a host of other bulbs.

How to Build a Hoop House to Protect Your Vegetables

Extend your cool-weather growing season and even get a jump on spring with a DIY hoop house frame to cover a raised bed.

How and When to Bring Houseplants Inside for Winter

Houseplants that have spent summer basking in the great outdoors need a little TLC before moving them inside for the winter. Get tips on how to successfully transition your plants from summer to winter.

Growing Carnation Flowers

Wonderfully fragrant and old-fashioned, carnation plants bring scent-sational beauty to the garden.

How Far Apart Should Tomatoes Be Planted?

Tomato plant spacing depends on a few factors, including the variety type and the type of garden. Follow our advice and you'll be spacing for success.

Planting and Growing Russian Sage

Learn how to plant Russian sage and use his drought-tolerant perennial.

How to Plant, Grow and Care for Lavender

Grow lavender in your garden and you’ll be rewarded with colorful flowers, wonderful fragrance and a feast for pollinators — all from a low-maintenance plant.

6 Ways to Prevent Animals From Eating Flowering Bulbs

We’ve got some tips and tricks to keep pesky critters from digging up hardy bulbs like tulips, crocuses and hyacinths.

How to Plant, Grow and Care for Cosmos Flowers

Cosmos produce lots of bright blooms and are easy to grow — what's not to love? Learn how to grow these forgiving flowers in your own garden.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.