Clematis Sparkler

Clematis 'Sparkler' is a small flowering climber that blooms generously in spring, and again in late summer. It bears beautiful white flowers that are semi-double to single. They are slightly tinged with cream in the middle of the leaf-shaped petals. In the centre of the corolla sits an elegant bouquet of fine crimson stamens. Despite its small size, this variety blooms all the way up its height.  With its modest growth, it is ready to make its entrance in all gardens, as well as on patios and balconies, planted in a large pot.   

Clematis belong to the Ranunculaceae family. They can be found in Europe, the Himalayas, China, Australia, and North and Central America. The 'Sparkler' variety is a recent introduction by Barry Fretwell (GB). It is a perfectly perennial, semi-woody climbing plant that will reach a height of approximately 2.5m (8ft), with a minimum spread of 1m (3ft). This clematis produces large flowers that can reach 8 to 10cm (3 to 4in) in diameter. They first appear in May-June on the previous year's shoots, and then bloom again on the current year's shoots in August-September, depending on the climate. The flowers are solitary, with 6 to 9 wide pointed sepals with undulate edges, slightly overlapping. Their base colour is white, with fine veins and a central cream-coloured line. The centre of the flower is adorned with a crown of red-toned stamens, which are clearly visible. The flowering is followed by decorative silvery-grey feathery fruits that persist until winter. The glabrous leaves are divided into 3 elliptical to lanceolate leaflets that are dark green in colour. The deciduous foliage is absent in winter. This clematis firmly attaches itself to supports or host plants using petioles transformed into tendrils.   

Plant your clematis alongside climbing roses to extend the flowering period until the end of summer. This is a genus rich in diversity, 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 white colour of 'Sparkler' will complement any colour in the garden. Consider, for example, the blue flowers of Clematis 'Hudson River', the purple of C. 'Romantika', or the pink of the 'Asao' or 'Dancing Queen' varieties. They will all look wonderful on a trellis or a small fence. Sweet peas also make great companions for smaller clematis varieties, adding fragrance to the mix.

Avoid use of excessive fertiliser, as this stimulates foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Do not mulch in order to avoid excessive moisture.