Clematis with abundant blooms - Clematis viticella 'Blue Belle' (Viticella Group)

Clematis viticella 'Blue Belle' is a classic and charming variety of the Viticella group, appreciated for its elegant flowers, natural hardiness and ease of care. This climbing plant is ideal for gardens that require a long-lasting floral presence, combining beauty with robustness.

Flower appearance

• Shape : The flowers are simple, with four broad, slightly overlapping tepals, which give them an open, saucer-like or "pinwheel" appearance.
• Color : The color is a deep blue-violet, sometimes described as a rich purple, with darker veins that add texture and depth. The center of the flower is adorned with greenish-yellow stamens, providing a subtle contrast.
• Size : Each flower is approximately 6-10 cm in diameter, being medium in size but extremely visible due to its vibrant color.
• Flowering period : It blooms profusely from June to September, sometimes even until October, providing a show of color throughout the summer and early autumn.

Growth characteristics

• Height : Grows up to 2.5-4 meters, being a vigorous climbing plant, but easily controlled by pruning.
• Foliage : The leaves are medium green, trifoliate and delicate, typical of the Viticella group, contributing to the airy appearance of the plant.
• Vigor : It is extremely robust, inheriting the natural resistance of the Clematis viticella species, which makes it less prone to diseases such as clematis wilt.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun or partial shade, with roots kept in shade (through mulch or companion plants at the base).
• Soil : Adapts to a wide range of soils, but thrives best in well-drained, fertile soils with a neutral or slightly acidic pH. It will also tolerate poorer soils as long as the drainage is good.
• Pruning : It belongs to pruning group 3, which means it blooms on the new growth of the year. It is recommended to prune it severely in spring, 20-30 cm above the ground, to stimulate abundant flowering.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : It is very resistant to diseases and various climatic conditions, withstanding low temperatures of up to -20°C or even lower, with minimal protection.
• Watering : Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but does not tolerate waterlogged soil.
• Fertilization : A balanced fertilizer applied in spring supports abundant growth and flowering.

Origin

Clematis viticella 'Blue Belle' is a selection of the species Clematis viticella, native to southern Europe, and has been bred to accentuate the deep blue color and classic flower shape. Although the exact date of its introduction is not clearly documented, it is part of the long tradition of Viticella varieties, known since the 16th century.