Clematis Blekitny Aniol

Clematis 'Blekitny Aniol' is a climbing perennial with a long and generous flowering. Its large star-shaped flowers bring charm and softness throughout summer with beautifully undulated petals. Its lavender-blue shade is enhanced by a cream-yellow stamen heart. This vigorous plant happily climbs on tall supports such as arches, pergolas, and fences.

This cultivar, dating back to the late 1980s, comes from Poland. It is the result of cross-breeding by the monk Stefan Franczak, which explains its name, translating to "Blue Angel". Belonging to the Ranunculaceae family, this clematis remains mysterious about its origins. Its "official" parents have not been mentioned. It is often associated with the viticella group and sometimes the jackmanii group. However, like most of its cousins, it prefers light, deep, moist, and fertile soil that is preferably neutral. It appreciates a sunny or partially shaded exposure, with the base of the plant always in the shade. It withstands cold weather and is not afraid of frost. However, it does not like stagnant moisture, so the substrate must be well-draining and watering should be moderate (if necessary, during the first year).

This beautiful climber can sometimes reach up to 4m (13ft) in length. It bears large single flowers of about 10cm (4in) in diameter. They bloom from July to August. They consist of five ovate petals, ending in a point and with delicately undulated margins. They open completely in a star shape, revealing a heart of cream-yellow stamens with subtle green reflections. Their colour wavers for a long time between blue and pink, and often ends up in a shade of lavender-blue with violet nuances. This combination is very changeable depending on the exposure: it fades in sunlight and intensifies in shade. Its colours are therefore difficult to define, much to the delight of the eyes. Fruits appear later, which will decorate the foliage until winter. The deciduous green leaves are composed of 3 to 5 leaflets. They are carried by voluble stems that twine around their support.

With its numerous flowers in delicate tones, 'Blekitny Aniol' can be paired with all its cousins for a romantic atmosphere. If you want to highlight the blue colour, plant it with Clematis 'Ivan Olsson'. Otherwise, C. 'Omoshiro' and C. 'Dancing Queen' will enhance its charming effect. To maintain a natural look, plant perennial geraniums or wild rose bushes at its base. This type of composition will elegantly dress up fences.