Clematis 'Fujimusume'
early large flowered clematis (group 2) (syn. Clematis Fujimusumi)
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: May to June and August to September
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
This resilient yet compact climber unveils single light-blue flowers, spanning up to 20cm (8in) wide, boasting velvety petals that generously overlap, encircling cream stamens. With early summer blooms and a repeat performance in late summer, ‘Fujimusume’ charms with its golden seed heads post-flowering. Preferring neutral to alkaline soils, this clematis would also be an ideal candidate for large pots and containers, complemented by small obelisks.
Clematis are happiest when their roots are kept cool and moist, so try to plant them where that the base of the plants will be lightly shaded by other, lower-growing species. Otherwise, use a clematis root protector, or top-dress the rootball (avoiding the immediate crown), with a generous layer of shingle or pebbles. Remove dead and damaged stems before growth begins in early spring, cutting all remaining stems back to where strong buds are visible. Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the plant - again avoiding the immediate crown.
- Humans: Skin irritant; Pets: Harmful if eaten