Clematis Patens

The Clematis of the Patens group are characterised by early flowering, developing on the previous year's growth. The leaves of these vigorous climbers are pale green, 7 to 15cm (3 to 6in) long, and are pinnate, sometimes single, composed of ovate or lanceolate leaflets. The inflorescences are solitary flowers or clusters in cymes. On young branches, the first flowers develop at the end of the vine. The flowers of the Patens group are bisexual, in large stars, single or double, 4 to 25cm (2 to 10in) in diameter. The bud is rather curved. The petals, generally numbering 4 to 8, are white, red, purple, blue, pink, mauve or bicoloured with pale yellow, white or red stamens. At the end of flowering, very decorative feathery seed heads appear. The flowering period lasts from March to August. The hardiness of Clematis of the Patens group varies between -7 and -29°C (19.4 and -20.2°F) depending on the cultivars. After flowering, light pruning can be done to remove dead or damaged stems. Patens Clematis, with fleshy roots, are planted at a depth of 10/15cm (4/6in) in moist, humus-rich and well-drained soil in full sun.