Clematis Caerulea Luxurians

Clematis 'Caerulea Luxurians' is an elegant Italian climbing clematis, reaching 3m (10ft) high. It flowers late in the season, adorning trellises and other supports with beautiful white flowers with violet tips and black anthers.

This robust climber develops deciduous leaves with 3 pale green, 8cm (3in) long leaflets, carried by twining stems that wrap around their support with tendrils. From June to September it has single, drooping, bell-shaped flowers on the current year's growth. They have 4 sepals and are white with violet tips and black anthers, 6cm (2in) in diameter. Sometimes green spots may appear on the slightly frilly tips of the sepals.

Clematis 'Caerulea Luxurians' prefers clay-siliceous, light, deep, fresh and fertile soil, in a sunny position with the base in the shade. Planting ground cover plants is a good idea. It is also susceptible to aphids.

Clematis 'Caerulea Luxurians' will look original when combined with an evergreen bush. On a trellis, fence, wall, or other supports, combine it with other clematis for a beautiful range of colours.

Tips: Avoid excessive fertiliser application as it stimulates foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Do not mulch to prevent excessive moisture, which favours clematis wilt.