The blooms of Clematis armandii make a spectacular backdrop to the Dry Garden.
This native of south west China is a vigorous species, which can reach 5m. The creamy-white flowers are offset against deep, glossy green, oblong-lanceolate foliage. Appearing in spring, the blooms are saucer-shaped and are produced in axillary clusters to produce a mass of flower. This species was introduced from China by Ernest Wilson in 1900. Though hardy, it prefers a slightly sheltered position, and plenty of space to grow for maximum impact.