Spectacular clematis - Clematis 'Taiga'

Clematis 'Taiga' (Evipo0111, PP 27,591) is a spectacular hybrid cultivar in the Ranunculaceae family, launched at the 2017 Chelsea Flower Show, where it was awarded for its unique flowers. This perennial clematis, of Japanese origin, is renowned for its double, bicolour flowers, with deep purple petals and cream-green tips, which change into various shapes throughout the season. Compact and versatile, Clematis 'Taiga' is ideal for gardens, patios, containers or as a climber on trellises and fences.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves : The leaves are compound, deep green , with 3-5 oval, glossy leaflets, forming a dense and healthy background for the flowers. The foliage remains attractive until autumn, when the plant goes dormant.
• Flowers : The flowers are double , 7-15 cm, with star-shaped purple-purple outer petals and shorter, curved inner petals with cream or greenish tips, similar to cactus or dahlia flowers. The shape of the flowers evolves from simple stars to extravagant double rosettes as they mature, providing a dynamic display. It blooms from June to September , on new wood, with an abundance of flowers that attract butterflies and bees.
  
  
• Fragrance : The flowers have a faint, almost imperceptible fragrance , the emphasis being on the visual impact.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Grows to 1.8-2.4 meters tall and 0.9-1.2 meters wide , which is compact for a clematis. It has a climbing habit, clinging to supports by its petioles.
  
• Vigor : Moderately fast growth, forming a dense bush, perfect for small spaces or containers.
• Type : Perennial, deciduous, classified in Pruning Group 3 (blooms on new wood). Some sources note the influence of genes from Clematis integrifolia and Clematis florida , which contributes to continuous flowering.
  

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun (minimum 4-6 hours/day) for maximum flowering, but tolerates partial shade , especially in hot climates, where afternoon shade prevents flower fading. Roots should be kept in shade, with mulch or low plants.
  
• Soil : Requires fertile, well-drained soil with consistent moisture, neutral pH (6.5-7). Plant with the crown 5-10cm below ground level to encourage roots. In containers, use a soil-based compost such as John Innes No.3.
  
• Watering : Water regularly , keeping the soil moist but not soggy. In containers, check that the top 2-5 cm of soil is dry before watering. New plants require more frequent watering.
  
• Temperature : Hardy in zones 6-9 (down to -23°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. In colder areas, mulch the roots in winter.
  

Care and resistance

• Hardiness : Cold and disease resistant, but not deer resistant , which may eat the leaves. Attracts butterflies and birds. May be rarely affected by powdery mildew, mites, or aphids; good ventilation prevents problems.
  
• Fertilization : Apply a high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g. 10-30-20) in spring to stimulate flowering, then a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
  
• Pruning : Part of Pruning Group 3. Cut all stems 20-30 cm from the ground in February-March , above a pair of healthy buds, to encourage new growth and abundant flowering. Deadheading (removing faded flowers) can prolong flowering.
  
• Propagation : Propagate by cuttings or layering in spring, although it is more difficult than other clematis due to its hybrid nature.
• Toxicity : Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested; wear gloves when handling as it may irritate skin.
  

Use

Clematis 'Taiga' is perfect for large containers with trellises, obelisks , fences , pergolas or as a climber through shrubs and climbing roses. Its exotic flowers make it a focal point in gardens, on patios or near entrances. It combines beautifully with plants in white, cream or yellow tones, such as Everillo Carex, for textural contrast. Due to its compact size, it is ideal for small or vertical gardens.

Origin

Developed in Japan, Clematis 'Taiga' (the name means 'wide river' in Japanese) was introduced by Raymond Evison and won acclaim at the 2017 Chelsea Flower Show for its unusual, passion flower-like flowers. It is a hybrid with genes from Clematis integrifolia and Clematis florida , which explains its long flowering and flower shape.

Each specimen produces both double and single or semi-double flowers.

Plant height with pot included: approx. 65-75 cm

Pot diameter: 17 cm