Clematis Pistachio Cake

Clematis 'Pistachio Cake' is a Polish variety of clematis with charming flowers both in shape and in their pink and green colour. They are fairly flat, semi-double to double, with a chartreuse green centre, while the petal edges are pale-pink and the tips are a pink-red colour. This clematis blooms from May to June. Its moderate growth allows it to be planted not only in the garden but also in a large pot on a patio or balcony.

The clematis genus belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. 'Pistachio Cake' is a horticultural variety obtained in Poland by Szczepan Marczyński. It is the result of cross-breeding between the cultivars C. 'Innocent Blush' and C. 'Pink beauty'. It belongs to the group of early-flowering clematis with large flowers. It blooms in May and June. It is a woody climbing perennial plant with short stems, reaching a height of 1.5 to 2m (5 to 7ft), with a spread of 1m². Each spring, a multitude of stems emerge from its base.

This clematis bears 13cm (5in) diameter flowers, which are fairly flat and semi-double to double. The numerous petals, overlapping each other, are slightly undulate and pointed. The centre is chartreuse green, with a group of pale green to yellow filaments and pale-yellow anthers. The edges are pink with a touch of red. The bisexual flowers are either solitary or grouped in cymes. The deciduous leaves are simple, bright green, and cordate. This clematis clings to support or host plants through petioles transformed into tendrils.

Clematis 'Pistachio Cake' can be planted alone in a pot or in open ground to cover a trellis or a teepee. Plant other climbing plants alongside it, with smaller and more understated flowers to avoid overwhelming the scene. Choose small climbing roses with single-coloured pink flowers like Siluetta Lavender or 'Starlet Rose Alina' for example. Plant it among foliage plants like Fargesia bamboo or small trees with staggered flowering like ornamental apple trees. This clematis with its soft and pastel colours and intricate flowers exudes a romantic atmosphere. Give it a prominent or regularly frequented spot to fully enjoy its beautiful flowers.