Jeffrey’s Evergreen Clematis. Clematis armandii has to be the queen of the genus Clematis with its elegant long evergreen leaves. This selection is slightly more compact than the species with shorter internodes, but it is not a marked difference. But to me it appears to have more flowers per panicle than other selections, even though the individual flowers might not be quite as large. It makes for a stunning floral display when it flowers for us here in zone 8, beginning in late February into March. The flowers are also very pleasantly scented and spread their fragrance for quite a distance. The Armand Clematis seem to be happiest here when grown in filtered sun or morning sun and afternoon shade. This species is a rapid grower and can grow 6-8 ft. in a growing season. It is magnificent covering a gazebo, arbor or fence with its year around textural foliage. Since it clings by twisting petioles, it is an easy climber. But on a wall, it must be trained on wire or a trellis. Growing tips for Clematis: have the root system in the shade and apply lime. Zones 7-10