Clematis patens Diamantina

Clematis Diamantina is a superb and uncommon climbing plant. At the end of spring, it produces double flowers in a bluish-purple shade. They display a slightly crumpled centre. The flowers reach up to 15cm (6in) in diameter. This gardening jewel will bring elegance and refinement in a container on a patio. It will look fabulous at the base of an arch, or even twining around a large bush. Grow it in rich, moist, and well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade.

Clematis Diamantina belongs to the large Ranunculaceae botanical family, which includes various ornamental plants such as aconites, anemones, and ranunculus. Clematis have been of interest to flower enthusiasts for centuries, and nurseries have focused on creating increasingly opulent hybrids. Diamantina was obtained from C. patens, which originates from Japan. It is of medium size, reaching about 2 to 3m (7 to 10 ft) in height. It has large trifoliate leaves, meaning they are deeply divided into three lobes. Like the majority of climbing clematis, it clings to its support with petioles transformed into tendrils.

Clematis Diamantina is an English hybrid, obtained in 2007 by the nurseryman Raymond Evison. From May to June, it bears a multitude of mauve-blue flowers, 15cm (6in) wide. They last for 3 or 4 weeks. The double blooms have sumptuous mauve-blue petals, slightly washed with purple, and a frilly appearance. In the centre, the stamens are petal-like, transformed into petals. Upright and gathered in a pointed shape, these stamens form a very elegant crystal-like structure in the middle of the flower. A second wave of flowers will appear in September if the weather is mild.

The cultivation of Clematis Diamantina is rather easy: provide it with deep, fairly rich, loose, moist, and well-drained soil. The only truly dreaded disease for this clematis is wilt disease, which occurs when there is excessive moisture at the base. It is characterised by sudden wilting of the leaves. For most clematis, it is advisable to follow the motto "head in the sun, feet in the shade". While relatively significant sunshine is necessary for good flowering, it is wise to protect the base from intense sunlight. You can do this by placing a tile over the base. It is also recommended to plant the stump horizontally, to promote the emergence of several buds from the base of the plant. Every year, at the end of winter, you can prune every other stem to 50cm (20in) from the ground. This will regenerate the wood and increase flowering. Take the opportunity to remove dead wood.

For an optimal setting, provide the clematis with a suitable support. If grown in a pot, first ensure it is of sufficient size (at least 25cm (10in)). Then place something like a small trellis for support. In the garden, choose a pergola or an arch. Plant it with Scentsation honeysuckle, Actinidia kolomikta, or even a small tree like the Coccinella apple tree, which will all provide excellent support. It can also be left to run on the ground, emerging happily among perennials.