shrub

Mongolian Gold Clematis

Clematis fruticosa 'Mongolian Gold'

The Story

Plant Bio

Clematis fruticosa 'Mongolian Gold' is a non-climbing, deciduous sub-shrub known for its vibrant, nodding, bell-shaped golden-yellow flowers.

Unique among clematis for its shrubby habit, this cultivar is valued for its long bloom period from summer into fall and attractive, silky seed heads.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright golden foliage adds vibrant color to garden structures and borders.

Climbing habit provides privacy and shade when trained on trellises or fences.

Supports pollinators and attracts beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mongolia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested, skin irritant

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck young plants into soil, ensuring roots are well covered and firmed.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Support the vine with a trellis or arbor to encourage upward growth.
Water consistently, especially during dry spells, for healthy development.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Provide sturdy support for climbing
Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer
Prune in late winter or early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune excessively during flowering
Never plant in poorly drained soil
Avoid fertilizing with high nitrogen in late summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vigorous climbing vine for trellisesDecorative hedge with golden foliageVertical accent in garden

Companion Plants

Roses Lavender Daylilies Hostas Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mongolian Gold Clematis questions

What zones can Mongolian Gold Clematis grow in?

Mongolian Gold Clematis is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mongolian Gold Clematis deer resistant?

Yes — Mongolian Gold Clematis is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Mongolian Gold Clematis bloom?

Mongolian Gold Clematis typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mongolian Gold Clematis need full sun?

Mongolian Gold Clematis does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Mongolian Gold Clematis drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mongolian Gold Clematis handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.