Clematis heracleifolia Pink Dwarf

The Clematis heracleifolia Pink Dwarf is a charming dwarf and pink form of the Clematis with large leaves, a Chinese botanical species that is very different from the large-flowered climbers that populate the imagination of many gardeners. This perennial forms a small dense tuft adorned with large hairy leaves and adorned with pale pink, slightly scented, inverted clusters of flowers reminiscent of hyacinths. It blooms for a long time, from mid-summer to autumn, animated by the flight of pollinating insects. Particularly beautiful along pathways or at the edge of woodlands, this 'Pink Dwarf' clematis is also well suited for container gardening.

The genus Clematis belongs to the family of Ranunculaceae. The Clematis heracleifolia Pink Dwarf descends from a Chinese species with herbaceous vegetation that becomes woody at the base. It is a bushy perennial, not a climbing plant, 40 cm (16in) in height, forming a tuft of upright and semi-spreading angular stems, which give it a width of about 40 cm (16in). Pruned back to 30 cm (12in) each year, the old stems lignify and branch out. They bear beautiful dark green leaves with three large leaflets that are slightly hairy. Flowering generally begins in August and continues until the first days of autumn. The floral stems emerge slightly above the foliage. They bear inflorescences organized in whorls of small flowers that are more or less inclined towards the ground, in the shape of elongated bells, 1 to 2 cm (0 to 1in) long, with short peduncles. They are slightly scented and composed of 4 pale pink petals rolled at their tips, revealing a throat with pale yellow stamens. When they fade, the fruits form small green and silver plumes, characteristic of clematis, but their ball-shaped arrangement around the stem enhances the decorative effect. It takes a little longer to establish itself, as the plant roots deeply in the soil before showing faster growth in subsequent years. This clematis prefers partially shaded, non-burning situations, as well as constantly moist soil.

This surprising little Clematis heracleifolia Dwarf Pink brings a breath of novelty to borders and balconies. Plant it alongside your ground cover roses to accompany their flowering. The association with sweet peas, ground ivy, and dwarf asters is also full of charm. Clematis represents a genus rich in diversity, with varieties available in all colours, shapes, and sizes. Take advantage of their ease of cultivation to give your garden a romantic and bohemian touch. The amazing large-leaved clematis, thanks to its herbaceous growth habit, will thrive perfectly in a pot on a balcony or in a bed overrun with perennial peas, variegated ivy, and small-flowered periwinkles. It extends the summer, blending so easily with other perennial plants or even grasses (Schizachyrium scoparium, Miscanthus sinensis Adagio) in the garden or in bouquets.