Clematis Xerxes

Clematis 'Xerxes' is a very old English cultivar. This hybrid clematis forms a medium-sized, highly floriferous climber. Its flowers, 12 to 16cm (5 to 6in) in diameter, are absolutely stunning with their bluish-purple to lavender coloured sepals, which are regular in shape and well imbricated at the pointed ends. The deep red anthers create a striking contrast, especially since the midribs are slightly tinted with the same colour. Its flowering period, from June to September, is even more abundant in the heart of summer. This variety is ideal for covering trellises, fences, and pergolas, as well as hedges and unattractive bushes. In partial shade, its flowers are dazzling. It is easy to grow, as long as its base remains moist without excessive watering. This climber is the perfect choice for novice gardeners.

The cultivar 'Xerxes' is a clematis obtained in 1877 by Charles Noble, one of the first horticulturists to produce hybrid clematis. It is the result of a crossbreeding between the jackmanii clematis and the 'Fortunei' clematis. It is a deciduous climber belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. Like most of its cousins, it prefers light, deep, moist, and fertile soil that is preferably neutral. It enjoys a sunny or partially shaded position, with its base always in shade. It resists cold temperatures and is not afraid of frost, even if prolonged. However, it does not tolerate stagnant humidity, so the substrate must be well-drained and watering should be moderate (if necessary, during the first year). It can be grown in a container if the pot is large enough (minimum 60cm (24in) in diameter).

'Xerxes' can reach a height of up to 3m (10ft) with a spread of 1.5m (5ft). It is a Group 2 clematis, which means it has large flowers and blooms in spring, with a second flowering in late summer. The lignified stems from the previous year bear the spring flowers, which are sometimes double. The herbaceous branches from the current year bear the late summer flowering. The second wave of flowers are single stars. They normally consist of 6 to 8 well-rounded sepals that overlap widely. Their large centre is filled with bristly cream-white stamens. Later, they transform into dry fruits with persisting feathery aigrettes in winter. The deciduous and medium green leaves are composed of 3 to 5 leaflets. They are carried by voluble petioles called tendrils that wrap themselves around their support.

Plant spring bulbs and ground-cover perennials, such as white-flowering geraniums, at its base and enjoy the show with minimal maintenance. If you have a larger space, this vigorous clematis can weave through bushes or up a column, adding verticality to a colourful flower bed. Large-flowered repeat-blooming clematis are the best companions for roses.  Let it climb on shrubs and hedges with light green to golden foliage to bring out all the blue hues of its flowering.