Clematis Viola

Description

Clematis Viola, also known as the Viola Clematis or Purple Clematis, is a deciduous climbing vine that is native to the eastern United States. It grows up to 8 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with slender stems that can be trained to climb trellises, arbors, and fences. From late spring to early summer, the plant produces showy, purple-blue flowers that are 2-3 inches in diameter. The flowers have four to six petals and a yellow center, and they attract bees and butterflies. After the flowers fade, Clematis Viola produces small, fluffy seed heads that can be left on the vine for winter interest.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Clematis Viola has green, compound leaves that are divided into three to five leaflets. The leaflets are ovate to lanceolate in shape and have toothed margins. The plant’s stems are woody and can be trained to climb by attaching them to a support structure. The flowers of Clematis Viola are up to 3 inches in diameter and have four to six petals that are purple-blue in color. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by fluffy seed heads that can be left on the vine for winter interest.

Care Guide

Clematis Viola is a low-maintenance plant that requires adequate water, fertilization, soil, and sunlight to thrive. Water: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Clematis Viola prefers moist but well-drained soil.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of flower production.Soil: Clematis Viola prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.Hardiness Zones: Clematis Viola is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Clematis Viola is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Clematis wilt: a fungal disease that causes wilting and blackening of the stems. Affected stems should be pruned and destroyed.- Aphids: small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant’s sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: tiny arachnids that cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Clematis Viola is native to the eastern United States, where it grows in woodland edges, thickets, and along streams. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Clematis Viola grow in a container?

A: Yes, Clematis Viola can be grown in a container, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.

Q: How often should I prune Clematis Viola?

A: Clematis Viola should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged stems and cut back the remaining stems to a pair of strong buds.

Q: Will Clematis Viola attract bees and butterflies?

A: Yes, the flowers of Clematis Viola are attractive to bees and butterflies.

Q: Is Clematis Viola toxic to pets?

A: Yes, Clematis Viola is toxic if ingested by pets. Keep the plant out of reach of pets.

Related Plants

• Clematis paniculata
• Clematis terniflora
• Clematis texensis
• Clematis viticella

References

• “Clematis Viola.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 6 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c753>.
• “Clematis Viola.” North Carolina State University Extension. Accessed 6 July 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/clematis-viola/>.
• “Clematis Viola.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. Accessed 6 July 2021. <https://hort.uconn.edu/detail.php?pid=121>.