CLEMATIS armandii

Clematis armandii is a spectacular evergreen vine that is beautiful whether in bloom or not. It is an enthusiastic climber and able to scramble through adjacent shrubs and trees up to a height of 6 m. Evergreen clematis, as this vine is also commonly called, climbs by using its leafstems like tendrils twisting and wrapping around twigs of adjacent vegetation. The leaves are compound and composed of three narrow lanceolate leaflets 5-7 in (13-18 cm) long and 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) wide. They are glossy green with prominent veins and a leathery texture. In late winter, this vine covers itself in fragrant white flowers that are born in clusters (called panicles) at the end of the branches. The blossoms have 5 petals, prominent stamens and make a dramatic appearance against the handsome foliage.