Clematis tangutica covers a large fence, pergola, or mature shrub with nodding golden-yellow lantern flowers from summer into fall. The vigorous deciduous stems can reach about 13 to 26 feet tall, while divided green foliage gives the climber a lighter texture than many large-flowered clematis.
Silky silver seedheads follow the flowers and remain decorative into winter. Grow it in full sun or partial shade, in fertile soil that holds moisture but drains freely. Keep the root zone cool and provide a fine support for the twining leaf stalks.
Cut old stems back to strong low buds in late winter or early spring. Lighter pruning can preserve earlier flowering and more seedheads. The sap may irritate skin, and the plant is harmful to rabbits if eaten.
