{"id":613787867596,"date":"2026-06-04T12:49:01","date_gmt":"2026-06-04T12:49:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/uncategorized\/best-climbing-plants\/"},"modified":"2026-06-04T12:49:10","modified_gmt":"2026-06-04T12:49:10","slug":"best-climbing-plants","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/best-climbing-plants\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Climbing Plants for Walls, Fences, Scent &amp; Shade"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 id=\"best-climbing-plants\">What are the best climbing plants for UK gardens?<\/h2>\n<p>The best climbing plants for UK gardens include clematis, wisteria, honeysuckle, Virginia creeper, ivy, star jasmine, passion flower and jasmine \u2014 each suited to different aspects, purposes and soil conditions. Choosing the right climber means matching the plant&#8217;s needs to your situation: aspect, support type, desired effect and how much maintenance you are prepared to do.<\/p>\n<p><!-- merlin:related start --><\/p>\n<h3>Related guides<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/evergreen-climbing-plants\">Evergreen climbing plants \u2014 year-round cover for walls, fences and screens<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-grow-plant-clematis\">How to grow clematis \u2014 planting, feeding, watering and first-year care<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-honeysuckle\">How to grow honeysuckle \u2014 planting, training, pruning and scent<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-wisteria\">How to grow wisteria \u2014 species, pruning, training and getting it to flower<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/clematis-pruning-groups\">Clematis pruning groups explained \u2014 Groups 1, 2 and 3 with variety lists<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- merlin:related end --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"choosing-by-situation\">How do I choose a climbing plant for my situation?<\/h2>\n<p>Start with your aspect and support, then decide what you want the plant to do \u2014 screen, scent, colour or wildlife value. The table below gives a quick cross-reference of the most popular climbers by situation; the sections that follow go deeper into each category.<\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;margin:1.2em 0;font-size:0.95em\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#f5f0e8\">\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Situation<\/th>\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Top choices<\/th>\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Avoid<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Sunny south- or west-facing wall<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Wisteria, star jasmine, passion flower, large-flowered clematis<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Ivy (scorches), most honeysuckle (prefers roots in shade)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">North- or east-facing wall<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Ivy, Virginia creeper, Clematis montana, climbing hydrangea<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Wisteria, passion flower, star jasmine<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Timber fence or trellis<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Clematis, honeysuckle, jasmine, passion flower<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Wisteria (too heavy long-term), Virginia creeper (self-clinging)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Quick screening<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Russian vine (very vigorous \u2014 use with caution), Clematis montana, Virginia creeper<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Slow starters: wisteria, star jasmine<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Scent<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Wisteria, honeysuckle, jasmine, star jasmine, some clematis<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Virginia creeper, ivy, passion flower<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Evergreen cover<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Ivy, star jasmine, Clematis armandii, Clematis cirrhosa<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Virginia creeper, wisteria, standard honeysuckle<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Wildlife and pollinators<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Ivy, honeysuckle, clematis (hips for birds), passion flower<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Highly doubled flower forms (poor pollen access)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"best-for-walls\">What are the best climbing plants for walls?<\/h2>\n<p>The best climbers for walls depend on whether the wall is solid masonry or rendered \u2014 and whether you want a self-clinging plant that needs no fixings, or one that needs wires or trellis.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Self-clinging climbers<\/strong> such as ivy and Virginia creeper attach directly to the surface using adhesive pads or modified roots. They are ideal for large, sound brick or stone walls where fixing trellis would be difficult, but they are not suitable for walls with loose or flaking mortar, or for timber cladding. For a detailed look at whether these plants cause damage, see our guide: <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/climbing-plants-damage-walls\">Do climbing plants damage walls and fences?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Wire-trained climbers<\/strong> \u2014 wisteria, roses, trained clematis and star jasmine \u2014 are attached to horizontal galvanised wires held proud of the wall by vine eyes. This allows air circulation and makes it easy to repaint or repoint behind the plant.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Wisteria<\/strong> is arguably the most spectacular wall climber for a sunny aspect. It is vigorous (ultimately reaching 10\u201315 m), long-lived and produces extraordinary hanging racemes of scented flowers in late spring. It needs firm support \u2014 substantial vine eyes and 3 mm galvanised wire \u2014 and twice-yearly pruning to keep it tidy and flowering freely. See our full guide: <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-wisteria\">How to grow wisteria<\/a>. Browse our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/wisteria-climbing-plants\">wisteria collection<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)<\/strong> is a refined evergreen twiner producing masses of white, intensely scented flowers in summer. It is slower-growing than wisteria but reliably covers a sunny or lightly shaded wall over three to five years. Hardy to around \u221210 \u00b0C in a sheltered spot, it needs protection in colder counties. Explore our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/trachelospermum-climbing-plants\">star jasmine range<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Virginia creeper<\/strong> turns the most spectacular crimson-scarlet in autumn and will cover an entire house wall without any fixings. It is fully deciduous and so gives no winter cover, but the autumn display is unmatched. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/parthenocissus-creeper-climbing-plants\">Virginia creeper collection<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-for-fences\">What are the best climbing plants for fences?<\/h2>\n<p>Fences \u2014 particularly timber panel fences \u2014 need lighter, well-behaved climbers that will not pull the structure down as they mature. Twining and tendril climbers are ideal; heavy self-clinging species are generally not suitable.<\/p>\n<p>Clematis is the premier fence climber. It is lightweight, flowers brilliantly, and the annual pruning required by most Group 3 varieties prevents it ever becoming unmanageably heavy. A well-chosen selection of early, mid-season and late-flowering varieties will give colour from February through to November. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/clematis-climbing-plants\">full clematis collection<\/a> and our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/clematis-pruning-groups\">clematis pruning groups<\/a> to understand which varieties need cutting back and when.<\/p>\n<p>Honeysuckle is equally well suited to fences and provides scent as a bonus. It twines rather than grips, so it will weave attractively through trellis or wire without putting undue strain on panels. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/honeysuckle-climbing-plants\">honeysuckle collection<\/a> includes both scented deciduous forms and the more vigorous semi-evergreen types.<\/p>\n<p>Passion flower (<em>Passiflora caerulea<\/em>) is surprisingly tough in sheltered gardens and provides striking exotic-looking flowers followed by orange-yellow fruits. It is vigorous but controllable on a fence. Browse our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/passion-flower-climbing-plants\">passion flower collection<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>For the widest range of fence-suitable climbers, see our curated collection: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/best-plants-covering-fences\">Best Plants for Covering Fences<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-for-scent\">Which climbing plants have the best scent?<\/h2>\n<p>The most heavily scented climbing plants for UK gardens are wisteria, honeysuckle, jasmine, star jasmine and some clematis cultivars \u2014 each peaking at different times of year, so it is possible to have fragrance from spring through to autumn.<\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;margin:1.2em 0;font-size:0.95em\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#f5f0e8\">\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Plant<\/th>\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Scent season<\/th>\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Scent character<\/th>\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Best aspect<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Wisteria<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Late spring (May)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Sweet, vanilla-rich, pervasive<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">South or west<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Honeysuckle<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">June\u2013September<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Sweet, honey, strongest at dusk<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Any, roots in shade<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Jasmine (<em>J. officinale<\/em>)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">July\u2013September<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Classic jasmine, intense<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">South or west<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Star jasmine<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">June\u2013August<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Sweet, jasmine-like, long-lasting<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">South, west or sheltered east<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Clematis montana (e.g. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/elizabeth-clematis-montana-plants\">Elizabeth<\/a>)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">April\u2013May<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Vanilla, light but widespread<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Any except deep shade<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Clematis armandii (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/armandii-clematis-plants\">Armandii<\/a>)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">February\u2013March<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Almond, vanilla, very early<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Sheltered south or west<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><strong>Honeysuckle<\/strong> is particularly effective near a seating area or open window. The native <em>Lonicera periclymenum<\/em> and its cultivars are loved by moths and bumblebees as well as gardeners. For planting and training advice see our guide: <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-honeysuckle\">How to grow honeysuckle<\/a>. We also have a short <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-plant-climbing-honeysuckle\">video guide to planting climbing honeysuckle<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Jasmine<\/strong> (<em>Jasminum officinale<\/em>) is the classic cottage-garden scented climber for a sunny wall. It is vigorous and somewhat unruly if not trained annually, but the scent on a warm evening is worth the effort. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/jasmine-climbing-plants\">jasmine collection<\/a> includes several tried-and-tested forms.<\/p>\n<p>For the earliest scent of the year, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/armandii-clematis-plants\">Clematis armandii<\/a> flowers in February and March \u2014 an extraordinary sight and smell when little else is in bloom. Its almond-vanilla fragrance drifts surprisingly far on still days.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-for-shade\">What are the best climbing plants for shade and north-facing walls?<\/h2>\n<p>Ivy, Virginia creeper, Clematis montana and climbing hydrangea are the most reliable climbing plants for shade and north-facing walls. Most scented climbers need sun to perform well, but there are more options for shady walls than many gardeners realise.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Ivy<\/strong> is unmatched for dense, year-round cover on a north wall. It supports significant wildlife \u2014 birds nest in it, and the late-autumn flowers are a vital nectar source for insects before winter. Contrary to popular belief, ivy on sound walls rarely causes structural damage. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/ivy-climbing-plants\">ivy collection<\/a> includes variegated forms that brighten a dark wall considerably.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Clematis montana<\/strong> is remarkably tolerant of shade and north-facing aspects, producing clouds of small flowers in spring. Varieties such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/elizabeth-clematis-montana-plants\">Elizabeth<\/a> (soft pink, vanilla scent), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/broughton-star-clematis-montana-plants\">Broughton Star<\/a> (deep pink, semi-double) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/fragrant-spring-clematis-montana-plants\">Fragrant Spring<\/a> all cope well on a cool aspect.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Virginia creeper<\/strong> will grow happily on a north wall and still produce good autumn colour \u2014 though not quite as vivid as on a sunny wall.<\/p>\n<p>For a deeper treatment of this topic, see our dedicated guide: <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/best-climbing-plants-shade-north-facing-walls\">Best climbing plants for shade and north-facing walls<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-for-speed\">Which climbing plants grow the fastest?<\/h2>\n<p>The fastest-growing climbers in UK gardens are Clematis montana, Virginia creeper and, if space allows, wisteria \u2014 all capable of adding 3\u20136 metres or more in a single season once established. Russian vine (<em>Fallopia baldschuanica<\/em>) is the fastest of all but is extremely difficult to control and is generally not recommended for domestic gardens.<\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;margin:1.2em 0;font-size:0.95em\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#f5f0e8\">\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Climber<\/th>\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Annual growth (established)<\/th>\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Ultimate size<\/th>\n<th style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px;text-align:left\">Controllable?<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Clematis montana<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">3\u20135 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">7\u201312 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Yes, prune after flowering<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Virginia creeper<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">3\u20135 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">15\u201320 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Yes, clip in late summer<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Wisteria<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">3\u20136 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">10\u201320 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Yes, twice-yearly pruning essential<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Honeysuckle<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">1\u20132 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">4\u20137 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Yes, prune after flowering<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Large-flowered clematis<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">1.5\u20133 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">2.5\u20134 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Yes, easy to manage<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#faf8f4\">\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Star jasmine<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">0.5\u20131 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">4\u20136 m<\/td>\n<td style=\"border:1px solid #ccc;padding:8px 10px\">Yes, responds well to pruning<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Bear in mind that &#8220;fast&#8221; and &#8220;well-behaved&#8221; are not always compatible. The very fastest climbers \u2014 montana clematis and Virginia creeper \u2014 need an appropriately large structure or they will need cutting back hard every one to two years. On a modest garden fence, a large-flowered clematis is a more sensible choice than a montana, which could overwhelm the structure within a few seasons.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-evergreen\">What are the best evergreen climbing plants?<\/h2>\n<p>The best evergreen climbing plants for UK gardens are ivy, star jasmine, <em>Clematis armandii<\/em>, <em>Clematis cirrhosa<\/em> and, in milder areas, passion flower and some honeysuckle varieties. Evergreen climbers are especially valuable in small gardens where a bare fence or wall in winter would be particularly exposed or uninviting.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Clematis armandii<\/strong> is the most handsome evergreen clematis \u2014 large, glossy, ribbed leaves and masses of small white or pale pink flowers in February and March. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/armandii-clematis-plants\">Clematis armandii<\/a> needs a sheltered, sunny wall; it is borderline hardy in the coldest northern and Scottish gardens. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/early-sensation-clematis-plants\">Early Sensation<\/a> is a similar white-flowered evergreen with excellent hardiness.<\/p>\n<p>For a full treatment of this subject, including hardiness ratings and aspect guidance for each species, see our dedicated article: <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/evergreen-climbing-plants\">Evergreen climbing plants \u2014 year-round cover for walls, fences and screens<\/a>. For evergreen clematis in particular, see <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/evergreen-clematis\">Evergreen Clematis \u2014 Year-Round Cover<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-clematis\">Which clematis is best for my garden?<\/h2>\n<p>There is a clematis for virtually every situation in the UK \u2014 from tiny balconies to large country walls, from deep shade to full sun, and from February to November. The key is matching the pruning group to your available time and the variety&#8217;s vigour to your available space.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Group 1 \u2014 early-flowering, prune after flowering only:<\/strong> Includes <em>Clematis montana<\/em> and <em>C. armandii<\/em>. Very vigorous; ideal for large walls, fences, pergolas or growing through trees. Varieties to consider: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/elizabeth-clematis-montana-plants\">Elizabeth<\/a> (pale pink, scented), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/broughton-star-clematis-montana-plants\">Broughton Star<\/a> (deep pink, semi-double), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/fragrant-spring-clematis-montana-plants\">Fragrant Spring<\/a> (white, strong scent).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Group 2 \u2014 large-flowered, light prune in late winter:<\/strong> The showiest flowers, often with a repeat flush in late summer. Many are compact enough for a small garden fence. Varieties to consider: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/doctor-ruppel-clematis-plants\">Doctor Ruppel<\/a> (deep pink with darker bar), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/bees-jubilee-clematis-plants\">Bees&#8217; Jubilee<\/a> (mauve-pink, reliable), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/crystal-fountain-clematis-plants\">Crystal Fountain<\/a> (lavender, extraordinary central boss), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/belle-of-woking-clematis-plants\">Belle of Woking<\/a> (silvery mauve, double), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/apple-blossom-clematis-plants\">Apple Blossom<\/a> (pink fading to white).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Group 3 \u2014 hard prune each February:<\/strong> The easiest clematis to look after \u2014 cut to ankle height every winter and they regrow to 2\u20133 m each season. Ideal for fences, obelisks and through shrubs. Varieties to consider: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/etoile-violette-clematis-plants\">\u00c9toile Violette<\/a> (deep violet, prolific), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/ernest-markham-clematis-plants\">Ernest Markham<\/a> (rich red), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/duchess-of-cornwall-clematis-plants\">Duchess of Cornwall<\/a> (pink and cream, semi-double), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/bill-mackenzie-clematis-plants\">Bill MacKenzie<\/a> (yellow lanterns, excellent seed heads), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/dianas-delight-clematis-plants\">Diana&#8217;s Delight<\/a> (pale lavender, vigorous).<\/p>\n<p>For a fully illustrated guide to choosing between varieties, see <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/which-clematis-should-i-grow\">Which Clematis Should I Grow?<\/a> and our planting guide <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-grow-plant-clematis\">How to grow clematis<\/a>. If you are worried about clematis wilt, our guide <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/clematis-wilt\">Clematis wilt \u2014 what it is, how to prevent it, and which varieties resist it<\/a> will reassure you that with good planting technique (burying the rootball 5\u20137 cm below soil level) most modern varieties recover well even if wilt strikes.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-for-pergolas\">What are the best climbers for pergolas and arches?<\/h2>\n<p>Pergolas and arches suit wisteria, roses, clematis and honeysuckle best \u2014 plants that can be trained along horizontal beams, flower prolifically at head height and, ideally, provide scent directly where people pass beneath.<\/p>\n<p>Wisteria over a pergola is a classic for good reason: the long, pendulous racemes hang at exactly the right level to appreciate the scent. A pergola also gives the structure that wisteria needs to support its considerable weight as it matures. For pruning details see our guide: <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/when-prune-wisteria-winter\">How and when to prune wisteria \u2014 summer and winter pruning explained<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Combining clematis with a climbing rose on a pergola is a time-honoured pairing. The clematis threads through the rose without needing separate support, and the two plants flower at complementary times. Group 3 clematis such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/etoile-violette-clematis-plants\">\u00c9toile Violette<\/a> are particularly good companions because they are hard-pruned in winter, making it far easier to attend to the rose without a tangle of clematis stems in the way.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"planting-tips\">What do I need to know before planting a climber?<\/h2>\n<p>Most climbing plant failures are caused by poor soil preparation, inadequate support or planting too close to a wall where the soil is dry. A few fundamental principles will make an enormous difference to establishment.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Keep the rootball away from the base of the wall.<\/strong> Plant 30\u201345 cm away from the base and lean the cane towards the wall. The soil at the base of a wall is often dry, compacted and alkaline from lime leaching out of mortar.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Improve the soil.<\/strong> Dig in a generous amount of garden compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Most climbing plants are greedy feeders and benefit enormously from good soil preparation.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Water regularly in the first two seasons.<\/strong> Climbers establish more slowly than they appear to; the roots need two full growing seasons to reach the moister soil beyond the immediate planting zone.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Plant clematis deep.<\/strong> Clematis should be planted so the top of the rootball is 5\u20137 cm below the soil surface. This encourages multiple stems to develop and protects the plant if wilt strikes. Our guide <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-deep-do-i-plant-a-clematis\">How deep do I plant a clematis?<\/a> covers this in detail.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fix support before planting.<\/strong> Horizontal wires, trellis or battens should be in place before the plant goes in so you can tie in new growth immediately.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"faq\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<h3>What is the fastest-growing climbing plant for a fence?<\/h3>\n<p>Clematis montana is the fastest practical choice for a fence, adding 3\u20135 m a year once established. It is controllable, unlike Russian vine, which is extremely invasive. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/clematis-climbing-plants\">clematis collection<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Which climbing plants are best for a north-facing wall?<\/h3>\n<p>Ivy, Virginia creeper and Clematis montana all thrive on north-facing walls. Climbing hydrangea is also excellent. Full guidance is in our article <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/best-climbing-plants-shade-north-facing-walls\">Best climbing plants for shade and north-facing walls<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>What is the best climbing plant for scent?<\/h3>\n<p>Wisteria, honeysuckle and jasmine are the most powerfully scented climbers for UK gardens. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/armandii-clematis-plants\">Clematis armandii<\/a> provides almond-scented flowers surprisingly early in late winter, making it uniquely valuable.<\/p>\n<h3>Which climbers stay evergreen in winter?<\/h3>\n<p>Ivy and star jasmine are the most reliably evergreen climbers across the UK. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/armandii-clematis-plants\">Clematis armandii<\/a> and passion flower are also evergreen in sheltered gardens. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/evergreen-climbing-plants\">evergreen climbers guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Do climbing plants damage walls?<\/h3>\n<p>Self-clinging climbers such as ivy can loosen already-defective mortar, but on sound walls the risk is very low. Wire-trained climbers cause no direct damage. Our article <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/climbing-plants-damage-walls\">Do climbing plants damage walls and fences?<\/a> covers this in full.<\/p>\n<h3>What is the best climbing plant for covering an ugly fence quickly?<\/h3>\n<p>Clematis montana will cover a large fence quickly and is easier to manage than Virginia creeper on timber. For a curated selection, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/best-plants-covering-fences\">Best Plants for Covering Fences<\/a> collection.<\/p>\n<h3>What climbing plant is best for wildlife?<\/h3>\n<p>Ivy is the single best climber for wildlife: it provides nesting sites, autumn nectar and winter berries. Honeysuckle supports moths, bumblebees and thrushes; clematis seed heads feed small birds through winter.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I grow clematis and wisteria together?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes, but only on a very large, strong structure such as a substantial pergola or a wide house wall. Wisteria is very vigorous and will eventually dominate, so give each plant its own allocated section.<\/p>\n<h3>Which clematis is easiest to look after?<\/h3>\n<p>Group 3 clematis such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/etoile-violette-clematis-plants\">\u00c9toile Violette<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/ernest-markham-clematis-plants\">Ernest Markham<\/a> are the simplest \u2014 cut to ankle height in February and they do the rest. No complicated pruning decisions needed.<\/p>\n<h3>How deep should I plant a clematis?<\/h3>\n<p>Plant clematis 5\u20137 cm deeper than it was in its pot, burying the lowest pair of leaf joints. This encourages multiple stems and protects against wilt. Full guidance: <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-deep-do-i-plant-a-clematis\">How deep do I plant a clematis?<\/a><\/p>\n<h3>Is passion flower hardy in the UK?<\/h3>\n<p><em>Passiflora caerulea<\/em> is hardy to around \u221210 \u00b0C in a sheltered spot and survives most UK winters. Even if top growth is killed, it regrows from the roots. Browse our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/passion-flower-climbing-plants\">passion flower collection<\/a> for available forms.<\/p>\n<h3>What is the best clematis for a small garden?<\/h3>\n<p>Large-flowered Group 2 varieties such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/crystal-fountain-clematis-plants\">Crystal Fountain<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/bees-jubilee-clematis-plants\">Bees&#8217; Jubilee<\/a> reach only 2\u20132.5 m, making them perfect for small fences, obelisks or containers in a compact garden.<\/p>\n<h2>Related Products<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/climbing-plants\">Shop All Climbing Plants<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/clematis-climbing-plants\">Clematis<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/wisteria-climbing-plants\">Wisteria<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/honeysuckle-climbing-plants\">Honeysuckle<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/jasmine-climbing-plants\">Jasmine<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/trachelospermum-climbing-plants\">Star Jasmine<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/ivy-climbing-plants\">Ivy<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/parthenocissus-creeper-climbing-plants\">Virginia Creeper<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/passion-flower-climbing-plants\">Passion Flower<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/best-plants-covering-fences\">Best Plants for Covering Fences<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Related Articles<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/best-climbing-plants-shade-north-facing-walls\">Best climbing plants for shade and north-facing walls<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/evergreen-climbing-plants\">Evergreen climbing plants \u2014 year-round cover for walls, fences and screens<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/which-clematis-should-i-grow\">Which Clematis Should I Grow?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-grow-plant-clematis\">How to grow clematis \u2014 planting, feeding, watering and first-year care<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/clematis-pruning-groups\">Clematis pruning groups explained \u2014 Groups 1, 2 and 3 with variety lists<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/clematis-wilt\">Clematis wilt \u2014 what it is, how to prevent it, and which varieties resist it<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-wisteria\">How to grow wisteria \u2014 species, pruning, training and getting it to flower<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/when-prune-wisteria-winter\">How and when to prune wisteria \u2014 summer and winter pruning explained<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-honeysuckle\">How to grow honeysuckle \u2014 planting, training, pruning and scent<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-plant-climbing-honeysuckle\">How to plant climbing honeysuckle (video guide)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/climbing-plants-damage-walls\">Do climbing plants damage walls and fences?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-deep-do-i-plant-a-clematis\">How deep do I plant a clematis?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/blogs\/garden-plants\/evergreen-clematis\">Evergreen Clematis \u2014 Year-Round Cover<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the best climbing plants for every situation \u2014 sunny walls, shady fences, scent, speed and year-round cover. Expert UK advice from Ashridge Trees.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_title":"Best Climbing Plants for Walls, Fences, Scent &amp; Shade","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the best climbing plants for every situation \u2014 sunny walls, shady fences, scent, speed and year-round cover. 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