Clematis Blue Eyes

Clematis 'Blue Eyes' is a recent variety of climbing clematis that blooms with an abundance of single star-shaped flowers in an uncommon light lavender-blue colour, turning slightly pinkish-purple in the middle as they age. They open successively, like blue-eyed winks, illuminating the darkest corners of the garden. This deciduous climber blooms twice, first in spring and then again in early autumn. With a compact habit and medium size, it is ideal for small spaces. You can also plant it in a pot or container. Hardy and easy to grow, it thrives in rich and well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. The key is to protect its base by keeping it in shade.

The 'Blue Eyes' cultivar is an English creation from 1999 by Ken Pyne. This deciduous climber belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. Like most of its cousins, this clematis prefers light, deep, moist, and fertile soil that is preferably neutral. It enjoys a sunny or partially shaded position, with its base always in shade. It can withstand cold temperatures and is not afraid of frost. However, it does not tolerate stagnant humidity, 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).

'Blue Eyes' can reach a height of 2.5m (8ft) and a width of 1m (3ft). It is a Group 2 clematis, meaning it has large flowers and blooms in spring, with a second flowering in autumn. This variety produces a mass of flowers for 4 months. The previous year's stems will bear the spring flowers from May to June. These flowers typically have 6 to 8 petals and reach a diameter of 6 to 10cm (2 to 4in). The late summer flowering (carried by the current year's branches) occurs in August-September. The flowers, now single stars, display the same colours that give them a piquant charm. They reveal a pure white stamen heart with sulphur yellow tips. Afterwards, fruits appear, decorating the foliage until winter. The deciduous and bright green leaves are composed of 3 to 5 leaflets. They are carried by voluble petioles called tendrils that twine around their support.

It will look wonderful in a container with a trellis to support it. It will flower for a long time, even in partial shade. Place some spring bulbs or a geranium at its base and enjoy the show with minimal maintenance. If you have a larger space, this non-invasive clematis can weave its way up a bamboo teepee or column, adding verticality to a vibrant flower bed. Plant it against a backdrop of shrubs with purple foliage, such as cotinus or elderberry, to enhance its light colour.