This resilient viticella-type clematis, paying homage to the 19th-century Polish–Lithuanian noblewoman and revolutionary, boasts captivating light mauve-blue flowers initially adorned with rosy-violet shading along their central bar, gradually fading as the blooms mature. Exhibiting a deeply textured surface, with crimped and undulating margins, these blooms exude an irresistible charm, ‘Emilia Plater’ is resistant to clematis wilt, and thrives when trained up a sturdy obelisk in a sizeable herbaceous border or left to gracefully scramble through shrubs or trees. Its versatility extends to quickly covering walls or facades, making it an excellent companion for yellow-flowered plants, showcasing both strength and elegance in any garden setting.
How to care for Clematis Emilia Plater:
To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.
Choose a spot with well-drained, fertile soil and ensure the location receives plenty of sunlight—at least 6 hours a day—for optimal flowering.
However, they prefer their roots to be cool and shaded, so plant low-growing plants or add a layer of mulch of well-rotted compost around the base, avoiding the immediate crown.
In early spring cut back the previous year's stems to a pair of strong buds about 15-20cm (6-8in) above ground-level and apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser.