Clematis patens Yukiokoshi

Clematis 'Yukiokoshi' is an unhybridised form of C. patens, the Japanese wild species. It possesses remarkable vigour and ease of cultivation. Its large, white double flowers marbled with light green are truly unique. It blooms abundantly in spring, and often again in late summer. This lovely deciduous vine prefers cool, sun-free exposures, where its delicate colour will be enhanced. Of modest stature but fast-growing, it is well suited for container cultivation.

The genus Clematis belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. 'Yukiokoshi' is a cultivar discovered in Japan in 1957. It is directly derived from Clematis patens, a woody clematis native to forests and brush-covered slopes in Japan, Korea, and northern China, up to 1000m (3281ft) in altitude. It belongs to the group of clematis that flower in May-June on the previous year's wood and then re-flower in September on the current year's growth. It is a woody, climbing perennial plant with short stems that will reach 2.5m (8ft) in height, with a spread of 1m² (3ft²). Every spring, a multitude of stems emerge from its base. The deciduous leaves are composed of 3 elliptical to lanceolate leaflets, 3 to 7cm (1 to 3in) long and 1.5 to 5cm (1 to 2in) wide, or composed of simple and ovate leaflets, measuring from 7 to 10cm (3 to 4in) long. The double flowers are composed of numerous elliptical and undulate petals that are narrow at the base. They are 10 to 14cm (4 to 6in) wide. The centre is occupied by smaller petals surrounding yellow stamens. The flower is initially variegated with white, cream, and green. It becomes whiter as it matures. This clematis clings to the support or host plant by means of voluble stems equipped with petioles transformed into tendrils. This variety has good health and good hardiness.

Plant your clematis alongside climbing roses to prolong the flowering period of walls and pergolas until the end of summer. It is a diverse genus, with varieties available in all colours, shapes, and sizes. Take advantage of their easy cultivation to give your garden, as well as your balcony, a romantic and bohemian touch. 'Yukiokoshi' will work well in a small garden and will be perfectly happy in a pot on a balcony or next to a doorway, embracing a small bamboo structure to welcome visitors with its unique colours.