Pink Blooming Montana or Anemone Clematis

Clematis montana 'Rubens' is a vigorous, fast-growing deciduous climber with pink flowers and bronzed young foliage. It flowers abundantly in spring on stems made the previous year, making it useful for covering a large fence, wall, pergola, or established tree. ## Selection and seasonal display The [International Clematis Society profile](https://internationalclematissociety.org/c-montana-rubens/) treats ‘Rubens’ as a cultivar name for the current plant in circulation, while noting that its connection to the original botanical variety is uncertain. It describes a strong climber that can reach about 10 m (30 ft), with reddish young stems, bronzed new leaves, and pink spring flowers. Garden plants sold under this name are best understood as the named selection described in that profile. ## Siting Allow generous room for the vine and provide a substantial support. The montana group flowers on growth from the previous season, so leave the mature framework in place through winter. New shoots can be guided across the support as they extend. ## Maintenance Routine pruning is usually unnecessary. If the vine needs shaping, prune just after flowering so it has time to produce the stems that will carry the next spring’s flowers; see the [RHS Group One pruning guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/clematis/group-one-pruning-guide). The International Clematis Society notes that montana clematis can be vulnerable in severe winter climates, so site it where its winter exposure is suitable.