Clematis patens Kiri Te Kanawa

The Clematis 'Kiri Te Kanawa' is a perennial climbing plant with perpetual and double flowering. Its large flowers, deep blue with sometimes purple reflections, first appear in late spring, revealing their numerous overlapping tepals in several rows. They then reappear in summer, giving way to decorative fruits. Compact in size, it will thrive on balconies, terraces, and will carpet trellises in full sun or partial shade.

This cultivar comes from the United Kingdom and pays tribute to the Aotearoa New Zealand soprano by bearing her name. Belonging to the Ranunculaceae family, 'Kiri Te Kanawa' prefers a light, deep, fresh, and fertile soil, preferably neutral. It enjoys a sunny or partially shaded position, with its base always in the shade. It withstands cold temperatures and is not afraid of frost, even when prolonged. However, it does not tolerate stagnant moisture, so the substrate must be well-draining and watering should be moderate (but necessary during the first year). It is suitable for container cultivation if the container is, of course, large enough.

From May to June, it produces large double flowers, approximately 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) in diameter, on the previous year's branches. These flowers consist of numerous obovate tepals, often acuminate and arranged in multiple rows. The pale yellow, almost cream, stamens stand out distinctly from this beautiful fluffy ensemble. A second flowering, on the current year's branches, appears around the month of August and continues into September. Afterwards, feathery fruits will adorn the foliage. The leaves, composed of 3 to 5 leaflets, are deciduous and a beautiful vibrant green. The voluble stems twine around their support and can reach up to 2m (7ft) in height.

'Kiri Te Kanawa' displays a soft yet captivating blue that easily finds its place in any garden. Whether around a small window, spread across a fence, or climbing a column, it will generously bloom in two seasons. And to further extend this pleasure, don't forget to plant spring bulbs that will prepare for its arrival and surround it with sweet peas to accompany it throughout the summer.