Clematis Diversifolia

Clematis of the Diversifolia group are cultivars derived more or less directly from Clematis intergrifolia. They are deciduous semi-climbing species, 2-3m (7-10ft) tall, with late flowering that occurs on the current year's growth. Their pale to dark green leaves, sometimes grey-green, 2 to 15cm (1 to 6in) long, are single and lanceolate or pinnate. The inflorescences are solitary flowers or clusters in cymes. On young branches, the first flowers develop more towards the end of the vine. The flowers of the Diversifolia group are bisexual, with wide star-shaped cups or trailing tulip-shaped, single or double, 4 to 12cm (2 to 5in) in diameter. The bud is rather curved. The petals, numbering 4 to 6, are white, reddish-purple, or mauve. At the end of flowering, very decorative feathery seed heads may appear. Flowering lasts from June to October with a beautiful resurgence in summer depending on the variety. The hardiness of the Diversifolia Clematis group varies between +5 and -34°C (41 and -29.2°F) depending on the species. In March, all the previous year's stems should be cut back to 20cm (8in) above the ground, cutting just above a cluster of buds. Diversifolia Clematis are planted at a depth of 8cm (3in) in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.