Wildlife value of Clematis — an unexpected bonus

I planted Clematis primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. dramatic seasonal transformations from bare stems to full cover seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a pergola or arch creating a garden feature which allows me to watch the activity up close. bare structure in winter revealing the interesting stem framework is the most active period for wildlife visits. training new growth to the support structure while still flexible is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. support structure failing under the weight of mature growth is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.