This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: Full sun or partial shade
• Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well drained soil
• Rate of growth: Fast
• Flowering period: July to October
• Hardiness: Fully hardy



Nodding buds open to four-petalled, pendent bell-shaped flowers, which if they open fully become more outward-facing and saucer-like. The back of the petals are a silvery-rose, while inside the flowers, the predominant colour is a deep plum, with a creamy centre and green stamens. A viticella clematis, 'Blue Pirouette' is a vigorous grower and will flower from midsummer to autumn creating a mass of vibrant colour.



• Garden care:
  Clematis are happiest when their roots are kept cool and moist, so try to plant them where the base of the plants will be lightly shaded by other, lower-growing species. Otherwise, use a clematis root protector, or top-dress the root ball (avoiding the immediate crown), with a generous layer of shingle or pebbles. 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 and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the plant - again avoiding the immediate crown.
• Humans: Skin allergen; Pets: Harmful if eaten