General Culture:
Easily grown in fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Clematis generally prefer full sun, but this clematis has better tolerance for part shade than most. Roots should be kept cool (shade with annuals or perennials and/or use a 2" mulch) and uniformly moist. Intolerant of heavy clay soils. Best to avoid any heavy pruning until plant is well established. Bloom on this clematis is from new (current season's) growth. Prune back to strong leaf buds 1-2' from the ground in late winter or early spring.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Profuse, 5-7", open, four-sepaled, violet-purple flowers cover this vine in mid to late summer. An old favorite which was introduced in England in the mid-1800s.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to wilt, leaf spot and stem rot. Needs a supporting structure to grow properly.
Uses:
This clematis can be trained to climb a wall, trellis, fence, arbor, porch or lamppost. May also be planted to sprawl over and through large shrubs. Provides height and a good architectural framework for small gardens. An excellent vine for long-lasting, mid to late summer color.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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