Contents
Description
Clematis Alpina Frankie is a deciduous vine that is commonly grown for its beautiful blue-purple flowers. This plant is a member of the buttercup family and is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 10 feet in length and can be trained to climb walls, trellises, or arbors. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer, producing large, showy, bell-shaped flowers that are around 2 inches in diameter. The flowers are followed by fluffy, silvery seed heads that add interest to the plant in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Clematis |
Appearance
Clematis Alpina Frankie has a unique appearance that makes it a popular choice for gardeners. The plant has long, thin stems that are covered in small, green leaves with a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are the real showstopper, with their blue-purple color and bell-shaped petals that flare out at the ends. The flowers have a light fragrance that is pleasant and not overpowering. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer and can continue to produce flowers throughout the summer if it is pruned back after the first flush of blooms. The seed heads that follow the flowers are also attractive, with their fluffy, silvery appearance.
Care Guide
Clematis Alpina Frankie is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for growing this plant:
Water: Clematis Alpina Frankie likes to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in the summer. Avoid fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as this can lead to an excess of foliage at the expense of flowers.
Soil: Clematis Alpina Frankie prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight: This plant likes full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to protect it from the heat.
Hardiness Zones: Clematis Alpina Frankie is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clematis Alpina Frankie is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mildew: Powdery mildew can be a problem in humid or damp conditions. Keep the foliage dry and provide good air circulation to prevent mildew from taking hold.
Slugs and snails: These pests can chew holes in the leaves and flowers. Use slug bait or handpick the pests to control them.
Habitat
Clematis Alpina Frankie is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. It grows in rocky soils and on hillsides, and it is often found growing near streams or other sources of water. In cultivation, this plant is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes, where it is used as a climber to cover walls, trellises, or arbors.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Clematis Alpina Frankie in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this plant in a container. However, you will need to provide a trellis or support for the plant to climb on, and you will need to water and fertilize it regularly.
Q: When should I prune Clematis Alpina Frankie?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged wood, and cut back the remaining stems to a pair of healthy buds.
Q: Can I grow Clematis Alpina Frankie in a hot, dry climate?
A: This plant prefers cooler, moister conditions and may struggle in hot, dry climates. If you want to grow it in a hot climate, provide some afternoon shade and water it regularly to keep the soil moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Clematis Alpina Frankie?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in the summer. Avoid fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as this can lead to an excess of foliage at the expense of flowers.
Related Plants
- Clematis Alpina
- Clematis Armandii
- Clematis Montana
- Clematis Tangutica
References
- “Clematis alpina Frankie.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c910
- “Clematis Alpina Frankie.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/clematis-alpina-frankie
- “Growing Clematis Alpina.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/growing-clematis-alpina-1402358
