| Clematis occidentalis
|
|
Blue virginsbower, Bell rue
|
| Type/Hardiness |
Herbaceous, Climber, Hardy |
| Flowering period |
Late spring |
| Height |
9-12ft/3-4m |
| Light preference |
Shade or part shade |
| Soil preference |
Moist, well-drained |
| Sowing time/depth |
Autumn/Winter, 0.1in/3mm-0.2in/5mm |
|
| A wild form of clematis originating from the US, with nodding, blue-purple flowers with four petals (or, more accurately, tepals). A good choice for scrampling over walls or large shrubs in a spot offering some shade. |
| Sowing and/or growing instructions |
| Clematis seeds can take up to three years to germinate, but sow the whole contents of the package and at least some should germinate within six months to a year. Sow autumn/winter onto the surface of a pot of moist, but not waterlogged, seed compost, covering with sand or fine vermiculite. Seal in a plastic bag and keep in a shady spot outside for at least 8 weeks at 39F/4C (or in the fridge). Then, keeping the pot in the bag, provide 65F/19C during the day (but out of direct sunlight) and a cooler temperature at night. Prick out seedlings as they emerge into more sterile seed compost, taking care not to damage the root. Pot plants on as they grow, ensuring that they always have adequate moisture. When plants have three sets of leaves, pinch out the growing tips to promote branching. Plant out when large enough, but do not expect flowers for up to three years. |
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