Clematis Viticella

The Clematis of the Viticella group are cultivars mainly derived from Clematis viticella. They are climbing, deciduous or herbaceous species, with late flowering that develops on the current year's growth. They have a persistent woody base, with higher branches being herbaceous. Their pale to dark green leaves, ranging from 2 to 15cm (1 to 6in) in length, are trilobed, dentate or pinnate. The inflorescences are presented in solitary flowers. On young branches, the first flowers develop more towards the end of the vine. The flowers of the Viticella group are bisexual, with nodding bell-shaped or open cup-shaped flowers, ranging from 3 to 12cm (1 to 5in) in diameter. The petals, numbering from 4 to 6, are white, deep red, violet or blue with prominent and hairy stamens. Seed heads appear at the end of flowering. The flowering period lasts from June to September. The hardiness of Viticella Clematis varies between +5 and -34°C (41 and -29.2°F) depending on the species. In March, all the previous year's shoots should be cut back to 20cm (8in) above the ground, cutting just above a cluster of buds. Viticella Clematis, with fleshy roots, are planted at a depth of 8cm (3in) in moist, humus-rich and well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.