Clematite spectaculoase - Clematis 'Taiga'

Clematis 'Taiga' (Evipo0111, PP 27,591) is a striking hybrid cultivar from the Ranunculaceae family, introduced at the Chelsea Flower Show 2017, where it was awarded for its unique flowers. This perennial clematis, of Japanese origin, is renowned for its double, two-toned flowers with deep violet petals and creamy-green tips, which change into various shapes throughout the season. Compact and versatile, Clematis 'Taiga' is ideal for gardens, terraces, containers, or as a climbing plant on trellises and fences.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

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

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: Grows up to 1.8-2.4 meters tall and 0.9-1.2 meters wide, being compact for a clematis. It has a climbing habit, clinging to supports by its leaf stalks.
  
• Vigor: Moderately fast growth, forming a dense bush, perfect for small spaces or containers.
• Type: Deciduous perennial, 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 its continuous blooming.
  

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun (minimum 4-6 hours/day) for maximum flowering, but also tolerates partial shade, especially in warm climates where afternoon shade prevents flower fading. Roots should be kept shaded by mulch or low plants.
  
• Soil: Requires fertile, well-drained soil with consistent moisture, neutral pH (6.5-7). Plant with the crown 5-10 cm below soil level to encourage rooting. In containers, use soil-based compost such as John Innes No.3.
  
• Watering: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. In containers, check if 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 zones, mulch roots in winter.
  

Care and resistance

• Resistance: Resistant to cold and diseases, but not deer-resistant, as deer may eat the leaves. Attracts butterflies and birds. Rarely affected by powdery mildew, mites, or aphids; good ventilation prevents problems.
  
• Fertilizing: Apply a high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 10-30-20) in spring to encourage flowering, then a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
  
• Pruning: Belongs to Pruning Group 3. Cut all stems to 20-30 cm above ground in February-March, above a pair of healthy buds, to encourage new growth and abundant flowering. Deadheading (removing faded flowers) can extend blooming.
  
• Propagation: Propagated by cuttings or layering in spring, though 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 the skin.
  

Uses

Clematis 'Taiga' is perfect for large containers with trellises, obelisk supports, fences, pergolas, or as a climbing plant through shrubs and climbing roses. Its exotic flowers make it a focal point in gardens, on terraces, or near entrances. It pairs beautifully with plants in white, cream, or yellow tones, such as Everillo Carex, for textured 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 gained admiration at the Chelsea Flower Show 2017 for its unusual, passionflower-like blooms. It is a hybrid with genes from Clematis integrifolia and Clematis florida, which explains its long flowering period and flower shape.

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

Plant height including pot: approx. 65-75 cm

Pot diameter: 17 cm