Clematite de colectie - Clematis viticella 'Avant Garde'

Clematis viticella 'Avant Garde' (Evipo033) is a hybrid cultivar of the species Clematis viticella , part of the Ranunculaceae family. Developed by Raymond Evison, this perennial clematis is renowned for its double flowers, a vibrant burgundy with a pale pink centre, and for its profuse flowering from summer to autumn. Compact and hardy, Clematis 'Avant Garde' is ideal for small gardens, containers, trellises or as a climbing plant, bringing dramatic contrast to landscapes.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves : The leaves are compound, medium to dark green , with 3-5 oval, slightly glossy leaflets, forming a dense, healthy background. The foliage is robust, disease resistant and provides an excellent contrast to the colorful flowers.
• Flowers : The flowers are semi-double to double , 5-7 cm across, with long, deep burgundy (wine-red) outer petals and shorter, pale pink inner petals, forming a fluffy, pom-pom-like center. The flowers appear in waves from June to August-September , on new wood, and have an exotic appearance, attracting butterflies and bees. The double form varies, with some flowers being fuller than others, depending on conditions.
• Fragrance : The flowers have a weak or absent fragrance , with the emphasis being on visual impact.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Grows to 2-3 meters tall and 1-1.5 meters wide , relatively compact for a viticella clematis. It has a climbing habit, clinging to supports by its petioles.
• Vigor : Moderately fast growth, forming a dense bush, ideal for vertical spaces or containers.
• Type : Perennial, deciduous plant, classified in Cutting Group 3 (blooms on new wood), inheriting the resistance of the viticella species.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day) for maximum flowering, but tolerates partial shade , especially in hot climates, where afternoon shade protects flowers from fading. Roots should be kept in shade by mulch or low plants.
• Soil : Requires fertile, well-drained soil with consistent moisture, neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). Plant with crown 2-3 inches below ground level to encourage roots. In containers, use well-drained compost.
• Watering : Water regularly , keeping the soil moist but not soggy. In containers, water when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry; in the ground, every 7-10 days, more often during dry periods.
• Temperature : Hardy in zones 4-9 (down to -30°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Mulch the roots in winter in colder areas.

Care and resistance

• Hardiness : Highly resistant to cold, disease (including clematis powdery mildew), and pests such as deer and rabbits, due to its viticella heritage. Attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
• Fertilization : Apply a high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g. 10-30-20) in spring, then a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season to support flowering.
• Pruning : Part of Pruning Group 3. Cut all stems 15-30 cm from the ground in February-March , above a pair of healthy buds, to stimulate new growth and abundant flowering. Deadheading can prolong flowering.
• Pests and diseases : Rarely affected, but may attract mites or aphids in dry conditions. Good ventilation and proper watering prevent problems.
• Propagation : Propagate by cuttings or layering in spring, although hybrids are more difficult to propagate than pure species.
• Toxicity : Toxic to dogs, cats and horses if ingested; wear gloves when handling to avoid skin irritation.

Use

Clematis 'Avant Garde' is perfect for containers , trellises , fences , pergolas or as a climber through shrubs and climbing roses. Its burgundy flowers with pink centers add dramatic contrast to gardens, patios or entryways. It pairs beautifully with plants in white, cream or yellow tones, such as lavender or white roses, for a sophisticated effect. Its compact size makes it ideal for small gardens or vertical spaces.

Origin

Developed by Raymond Evison in the UK, 'Avant Garde' is a hybrid of the hardy Clematis viticella species. Released in 2004, it gained popularity for its unusual, double flowers and long flowering, making it a favourite in modern gardens.

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

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

Pot diameter: 17 cm