Clematis 'Star of India'
late large flowered clematis (group 3)
This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
- Position: full sun
- Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: fast-growing
- Flowering period: July
- Hardiness: fully hardy
The semi-nodding flowers emerge a red-purple colour with a reddish central bar and fade with age on this late-flowering clematis. 'Star of India' is ideal for covering a trellis or climbing through a neighbouring tree, and it's happiest in a sunny spot - but with its roots in the shade. Pair it with Rosa 'Madame Grégoire Staechelin' for lush, cottage garden loveliness. - Garden care: Climbing clematis need their roots to be kept cool and moist, so plant the base of these clematis in light shade or provide shading with other plants or a dressing of 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, avoiding the immediate crown.
- Humans: Skin irritant; Pets: Harmful if eaten