Clematis Saphyra Double Rose

Clematis 'Saphyra Double Rose' is a new variety of herbaceous clematis derived from Clematis integrifolia, which is more like a shrub than a climber. Its flowering takes the form of large star-shaped flowers, in two shades of pink. The vegetation completely disappears in winter to re-emerge in spring, with many leafy stems that emerge directly from the crown, forming a slightly bushy tuft that needs support. Its modest size, accommodating nature, and brilliant flowering make this clematis an ideal variety for container cultivation and an excellent companion for perennials or low-growing bushes.

The Clematis genus belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. 'Saphyra Double Rose' Clematis is a horticultural variety obtained by INRA. It comes from Clematis integrifolia Olgae, descended from a herbaceous clematis native to southern Europe and the robust clematis 'The President'. It is a herbaceous perennial and low-climbing plant, with long leafy stems that form a bushy tuft not exceeding 1.50 m (5ft) high, with a spread of 70 cm (28in). It is fairly slow to establish itself, the plant deeply roots in the soil before showing exponential growth in the following years. Every spring, a multitude of stems emerge directly from its base, bearing small, entire, oval to elliptical, olive green leaves. The flowers bloom generously in June, and then again, more sporadically, in September. They are star-shaped, composed of 4 rather thin and undulating, light pink petals, with a central line of almost fuchsia pink, 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5in) wide with deep pink stamens in their throat. Like its first parent, this variety tolerates drought quite well once established and prefers sunny but not scorching locations. Like the second parent, it adapts to various soils and climates.

Plant 'Saphyra Double Rose' clematis alongside your white, red, pink, or mauve roses to accompany their first flowering and fill in their base, which can be bare. Clematis is a diverse genus, with varieties available in all colours, shapes, and sizes. Take advantage of their easy cultivation to give your garden a romantic and bohemian touch. The exquisite 'Saphyra Double Rose' variety will be perfectly happy in a pot on a balcony thanks to its herbaceous growth. In the garden, it will complement abelias, deutzia, and caryopteris. Alternatively, it can spread on the ground on a slope with perennial peas, Sollya heterophylla, variegated ivy, perennial salvias, small-flowered periwinkles, and many others.