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Clematis 'Henryi'
Henryi Clematis
Garden hybrid of complex Eurasian {Clematis} parentage
Overview
Clematis × 'Henryi' is one of the older and more recognised large-flowered white clematis, introduced in 1858 and still widely grown. Plants climb 72-120 inches (180-300 cm) tall. Flat, open flowers 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) across with 6-8 creamy white, pointed tepals surround a prominent centre of dark chocolate-brown stamens, creating a high-contrast white-and-brown display. The first bloom in May-June on old wood produces the largest flowers; the second flush in August-September on new growth has slightly smaller blooms. The pointed tepal shape separates 'Henryi' from rounded-tepalled white clematis cultivars. The large white flowers are visible from a distance and show well against dark backgrounds — fences, dark-leaved shrubs, and brick walls. This is a Group 2 (light prune) clematis: in late winter, dead and weak stems are removed and remaining shoots are cut to strong buds. Hard pruning is avoided, since it eliminates the old wood needed for the first flush. The dark stamens are a key ornamental feature; as flowers age, the stamens lighten to tan. Clematis wilt can cause sudden stem collapse. The cultivar was named for Dr. Henry, a plant collector in China. All parts contain protoanemonin, toxic if ingested.
Native Range
Clematis × 'Henryi' is a garden hybrid raised by Anderson-Henry in Edinburgh, Scotland, and introduced in 1858. The cultivar ranks among the earliest large-flowered clematis hybrids still in cultivation.Suggested Uses
Trained on trellises, arbours, and fences where the large white flowers with dark stamens create a high-contrast display. The white colour shows well against dark backgrounds. Container culture works in pots of 10 gallons (38 liters) or more with support. Pairs with blue and purple clematis on shared structures.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 10'
Width/Spread2' - 3'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Colors
Bloom Information
First flush in May-June on old wood with the largest flowers. Second lighter flush in August-September on new growth. Total display approximately 10 weeks across both flushes. The dark brown stamens gradually lighten as individual flowers age.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Creamy white with dark chocolate-brown stamensFoliage Description
Dark green, compound, with twining petiolesGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in full sun to partial shade with at least 5 hours of direct light. The root zone is shaded with mulch or low ground-cover. Well-drained, humus-rich soil. Group 2 pruning: dead and weak stems are removed in late winter, with remaining stems cut to strong buds. Hard pruning is avoided. A support structure for the twining petioles is provided. Watering is regular. Light fertilising in spring supports growth.Pruning
Group 2 (light prune): In late February-March, dead and weak stems are removed. Remaining stems are cut to the highest pair of strong, swelling buds. Old wood is preserved for the spring bloom.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring
Maintenance Level
moderateContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 10 gallons