Climbing Plants That Produce Fragrant Flowers
Climbing plants have always had a distinct beauty to show off. They bring back to life any inert surface they spread on, such as walls, pergolas and arches, covering them completely with the thick foliage and beautiful flowers. It is a must that any patio should be embellished by such climbing plants for a complete space of tranquility. Below are several climbing plants that produce fragrant flowers to inspire you in decorating the terrace or any other corner you want to enliven.
Jasmine, especially Jasmine officinale affine species, with pink flowers flushed white — is among the best pergola climbers for both fragrance and visual appeal. A twisting semi-evergreen, it gives a dense cover in sun and produces a strong, heady scent through summer.
Wisteria is an omnipresent choice when it comes to climbing plants. A strong framework, such as that of this solidly built pergola, is needed to support the weight of the elegant, but vigorous, wisteria. The plant goes as tall as ten meters if gets enough sunlight and blooms in purple blue fragrant flowers. After two years, it is recommended pruning it to keep it under control.
The Australian wax flower is next on our list. It grows to a height of 15 to 20 feet in full sun to partial shade. Blooms are white to near-white or cream to tan and appear in late summer through early fall, while the vine is evergreen.
Morning glory is also a popular fast growing climber with twining stems. This variety of morning glory bears sky blue, funnel-shaped flowers with white centers throughout summer, but the colors can vary from white to pink as well.
We know it from our grandparents’ gardens: honeysuckle. The fragrance of honeysuckle, particularly heady at dusk, encourages anyone passing through to pause a while to survey the view beyond. Relaxing under an arch covered with these strong fragrance flowers is a mesmerizing experience.
Another popular option are the clematis, with 300 species of them. Clematis is a favorite climber among gardens as it is easy to grow, relatively lightweight, and provides a beautiful burst of color beginning in early spring. Combine clematis with climbing roses (opening picture) for quick cover and loads of color. You might also consider any of the varieties of clematis or a combination of clematis plants that bloom at different times, such as etoile violette and clematis armandii.
Sources: Davesgarden.com, Hgtv.com, Hgtvgardens.com