Summer-flowering perennials maybe at the top of the wish-list for their spectacular shows but combining them with evergreen climbing plants can create unique and stunning displays. There are so many varieties available and whether the desired effect is to provide a leafy backdrop to show off the interesting blooms or foliage of other plants, to inject some much-needed colour in the winter garden or to disguise walls or fences there will be a climber perfect for the job.
QUICK COVER EVERGREEN CLIMBING PLANTS
For a sunny aspect the choice is overwhelming. Within a few seasons Clematis armandii (Clematis) should quickly cloak a garden wall, fence or trellis with its long, attractive, evergreen leaves, reaching a height of up to 5m and spread of 3m. New foliage is bronze-tinted. In early spring it is covered in clusters of star-shaped, fragrant, white flowers and planting near a doorway will maximize the opportunity to enjoy the scent. In common with most clematis it prefers its roots to be cool. It is an ideal plant for the back of a border where other plants will provide shade for its base.
Lonicera japonica ‘Halls Prolific’ (Japanese Honeysuckle) is a fast-growing evergreen suitable for a sunny or partially-shaded spot. It is a vigorous and prolific flowerer from April to August with an abundance of perfumed, white flowers ageing to yellow. In hot summers small, purple berries may form after the flowers have finished and the attractive dark-green leaves will stay on the plant in milder winters. It will reach a height of 4m and a spread of 3m.
A quick-growing climber for brightening deep shade is Hedera colchica ‘Sulphur Heart’ (Persian ivy). Its variegated mid-green leaves are streaked with yellow and as it matures the foliage becomes more pronounced. Established plants bear large, green flowers in autumn and eventually reach a height and width of 5 x 5m.
HARDY EVERGREEN CLIMBING PLANTS
Not quite as fast-growing there are other evergreen climbers that are worthy of note. For a sunny or partially shaded outlook Trachelosperman jasminoides (Star jasmine) is attractive with dark green leaves that turn to bronze and red in winter. Its clusters of white, fragrant flowers appear from mid to late summer and it reaches a height and spread of 9 x 3m.
The surprisingly hardy Mexican hydrangea Hydrangea seemanii is suitable for any aspect. Its tough, large, leathery dark green leaves make it ideal year-round cover. Once established it bears clusters of greenish-white scented flowers up to 15cm across in the summer and reaches an eventual height and spread of 10 x 3m.
Whether covering fences, walls and pergolas; disguising ugly walls, sheds and other eyesores or just to shield the neighbours an evergreen climbing plant is sure to be the perfect solution.
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