Clematis 'Frances Rivis'
alpine clematis (group 1) (syn. Clematis alpina Frances Rivis)
Delightful, slightly twisted, purple-blue bells form in mid- to late spring and are followed by whiskery seedheads, which cover the plant later in the year. Clematis 'Frances Rivis' is one of the best of the alpinas. Raised by a Suffolk gardener of the same name in 1900, from seed, it blooms reliably each spring, no matter what the weather is and is perfect for a a sunny trellis.
This alpine clematis is one of the easiest clematis to look after as it needs little or no pruning - and it is also one of the toughest, so ideal for cold exposed sites.
How to care for Clematis Frances Rivis:
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.
Clematis need their roots to be kept cool and moist, so plant the base of these climbers in light shade or provide shading with other plants or a dressing of pebbles.
No routine pruning is necessary. If the spread of the plant needs to be restricted prune immediately after flowering, cutting back overlong shoots to healthy buds.
Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the base of the plant in early spring.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
Eventual spread:
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
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Humans: Skin irritant; Pets: Harmful if eaten
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