Clematis Wildfire

Clematis 'Wildfire' is a recent variety with immense flowers measuring 15 to 20cm (6 to 8in) in diameter and boasting a vibrant bicolour hue. From May to June and again in September, this deciduous climbing plant displays compound stars composed of violet-blue sepals with striking fiery red median stripes. These vibrant shades are enhanced by a dense heart of cream-white stamens with fiery red anthers and bright light green foliage. 'Wildfire' demonstrates greater disease resistance than other hybrids with similar hues. Fast-growing and of medium size, this deciduous climber is excellent for adorning fences, trellises, and pergolas. It is hardy everywhere and easy to cultivate. Keep its base cool and its head in the sun

The cultivar 'Wildfire' is a hybrid clematis obtained by Szczepan Marczynski in Poland in 1994. Clematis is a deciduous climber belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. Like most of its cousins, it likes light, deep, moist, and fertile soil that is preferably neutral. It appreciates a sunny or partially shaded position, with the base always in the shade. Hardy everywhere, it withstands cold and is not afraid of frost. However, it does not like stagnant moisture, so the substrate must be well-draining and watering should be moderate (if necessary, during the first year). It can be grown in a container if the pot is large enough (minimum 60cm (24in) in diameter).

'Wildfire' can reach a height of 3m (10ft) with a spread of 2m (7ft). It is a Group 2 clematis, meaning it has large flowers and blooms in spring, with a second flowering in late summer. The woody stems from the previous year bear the spring flowers, which are sometimes double. The herbaceous branches from the current year bear the late summer flowers. The second wave of flowers are single stars. They normally consist of 6 to 8 overlapping sepals, reaching half their length. They have a large, densely packed heart of bristly stamens. Afterwards, they transform into dry fruits with persisting feathery aigrettes in winter. The deciduous green leaves are composed of 3 to 5 leaflets. They are borne on climbing petioles called tendrils that coil around their support by themselves.

Plant spring bulbs and some ground-cover perennials such as white or blue-flowering geraniums at its base and enjoy the show with minimal maintenance. If you have a larger space, this vigorous clematis can weave through shrubs or up a column to bring verticality to a vibrant border. Large-flowered repeat-blooming clematis are the best companions for roses. A sunny location will highlight its dark colour more than partial shade. Let it climb on shrubs and hedges with light green or even golden foliage to bring out all the nuances of its flowering.