Clematis
Clematis viticella // diversifolia // tangutica // montana // vitalba // and others
Clematis viticella (Poster)
Clematis viticella
“Dr Ruppel” is like “Nelly Moser” a cultivar suitable for shady positions
Clematis x jackmannii – the classic example among the large-flowered Clematis
Clematis montana
Clematis on wire rope along a pergola post
Clematis montana
Clematis montana
The Clematis are climbers especially appreciated for their flowers. There are differences between the robust wild or native forms, their variations as well as the large flowered hybrids.
Requirements
Semi-shaded to moderately sunny Position, fresh humus-rich soil with good drainage, shade on the root zone is required. The large-flowered cultivars, except for Clematis diversifolia, are often susceptible to mildew and Clematis-wilt.
Growth and Leaves
A climber with leaf-tendrils. Growth depends on species and ranges from weak to extremely vigorous. Foliage from May to October, defoliation of dried up leaves often slow.
Flower and Fruit
Depending on species / cultivars. Often beautiful filigree seed heads.
Growth Support Systems
Depending on growth habit, usually tight meshes with wires at 20-25cm intervals, for suitable growth support systems see below. Light assembly kits, for optimal development also Medium, if at risk of mildew and Clematis-wilt Heavy Duty Growth Support Systems, to allow greater distance from the wall.
Pruning
Three pruning groups: Group 1 and 2 see below. Pruning Group 2 includes most hybrids with large flowers, where all shoots are only minimally trimmed at the end of the year.
Additional notes for individual Clematis species:
Clematis viticella / diversifolia
Parents of many cultivars. Wild form reaches 5m height, flowers pink to violet during many weeks, very robust. Interesting for small espaliers are hybrids between Clematis integrifolia and C. viticella (“Clematis diversifolia”). Pruning Group 3, strong pruning required towards end of year, to approx. 20-60cm above ground.
Clematis tangutica
Asian wild form, highly drought resistant and also suitable for full sun exposure. Long flowering time, filigree seed heads. Pruning Group 3, refer to C. viticella.
Clematis montana
Robust species, gigantic growth habit, short flowering time in April. Suitable for larger areas. Pruning Group 1, no winter pruning, but cut back to thin out after flowering. For suitable wire rope systems see below.
Clematis vitalba
Indigenous to Central Europe (and Africa), a “weed” Clematis, forms gigantic lianas, modest flowering with small white star-shaped flowers. Ornamental seed fascicles. Pruning Group 3, see C. viticella.
Clematis montana on 3mm wire rope, cross bracket WH 10141
Clematis on each two wire ropes, as per Rope-System 4020.
Clematis tangutica on brackets WM 12XX7
Clematis tangutica
Clematis tangutica
Clematis tangutica
Vigorous Clematis vitalba on tension cables are useful for accent planting in a “designed,” hard urban environment.
Clematis, probably Clematis alpina
Clematis on a combined protection and support system |
Hybrids |
Clematis vitalba ("Old Man`s Beard") |
Greening of a pole with Clematis vitalba. The surrounding support wires have been designed specifically halfway up the pole only, to prevent the plant from growing into the upper tension cables of the tramway. |
