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Description
Clematis Guernsey Cream is a stunning climber that produces beautiful white flowers with creamy-yellow centers. This plant is a hybrid of Clematis montana and Clematis macropetala, and it was first introduced in 1981. It has a vigorous growth habit, and it can reach up to 20 feet in height. The blooms of Clematis Guernsey Cream are large, measuring up to 3 inches in diameter, and they appear in late spring to early summer. This plant is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Clematis |
Appearance
Clematis Guernsey Cream has a woody stem that can grow up to 20 feet long. The leaves are dark green and divided into three leaflets. The flowers are white with creamy-yellow centers, and they measure up to 3 inches in diameter. They bloom in late spring to early summer and last for several weeks. After the flowers fade, fluffy seed heads appear, which add interest to the plant.
Care Guide
Clematis Guernsey Cream requires regular care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: This plant requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Be sure to water deeply to encourage deep root growth.- Fertilization: Fertilize Clematis Guernsey Cream in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the application in midsummer.- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It also benefits from a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.- Sunlight: Clematis Guernsey Cream prefers full sun to partial shade. However, it can be sensitive to hot afternoon sun in warmer climates.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clematis Guernsey Cream is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Clematis wilt: This disease causes the plant to wilt and die back. It is caused by a fungus that infects the stem. To prevent this disease, prune infected stems and dispose of them in the trash.- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. Use a horticultural oil to control spider mites.- Aphids: These pests suck sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use a insecticidal soap to control aphids.
Habitat
Clematis Guernsey Cream is native to China and was first introduced to the UK in 1981. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. This plant is a climber and requires support such as a trellis, arbor, or fence.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I prune Clematis Guernsey Cream?
A: Prune Clematis Guernsey Cream in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the previous year’s growth to two or three buds above the ground.
Q: Can I grow Clematis Guernsey Cream in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Clematis Guernsey Cream in a container. Choose a large container and provide support for the plant to grow on.
Q: How often should I fertilize Clematis Guernsey Cream?
A: Fertilize Clematis Guernsey Cream in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the application in midsummer.
Q: Can I grow Clematis Guernsey Cream indoors?
A: No, Clematis Guernsey Cream is an outdoor plant and requires full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Clematis Guernsey Cream:- Clematis montana- Clematis macropetala- Clematis ‘Arabella’- Clematis ‘Niobe’- Clematis ‘The President’
References
– Royal Horticultural Society. “Clematis Guernsey Cream.” Accessed July 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/29757/clematis-guernsey-cream/details.- Missouri Botanical Garden. “Clematis Guernsey Cream.” Accessed July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281251&isprofile=0&.- University of Minnesota Extension. “Clematis.” Accessed July 2021. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/clematis.
