Contents
Description
Clematis Integrifolia, also known as Solitary Clematis, is a hardy perennial plant native to Europe and Central Asia. It is a member of the buttercup family and is characterized by its delicate, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of blue, purple, and pink from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Clematis |
Appearance
Clematis Integrifolia grows to a height of 2-3 feet and a spread of 1-2 feet. Its stems are slender and wiry, and its leaves are simple, oblong, and dark green in color. The flowers are typically 2-3 inches in diameter and have four to six petals that curl back to reveal a central cluster of yellow stamens. The plant produces silky seed heads after flowering, which can add interest to the garden even after the blooms have faded.
Care Guide
Clematis Integrifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Clematis Integrifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend your soil with compost or other organic material before planting.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Hardiness Zones: Clematis Integrifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clematis Integrifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by:
- Aphids: These small insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by releasing ladybugs in the garden.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by regularly spraying the plant with water.
- Clematis wilt: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Affected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
Clematis Integrifolia is native to Europe and Central Asia and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Clematis Integrifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Clematis Integrifolia can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Clematis Integrifolia require pruning?
A: Clematis Integrifolia does not require heavy pruning, but it can be lightly pruned in the spring to encourage bushier growth.
Q: How often should Clematis Integrifolia be fertilized?
A: Clematis Integrifolia should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Clematis Integrifolia be grown in shade?
A: Clematis Integrifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It can be grown in shade, but the plant may not bloom as prolifically.
Related Plants
- Clematis ‘Arabella’
- Clematis ‘Asao’
- Clematis ‘Crystal Fountain’
- Clematis ‘Jackmanii’
- Clematis ‘Niobe’
References
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press, 2011.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. “Clematis Integrifolia.” Accessed June 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d480.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. “Clematis Integrifolia.” Accessed June 14, 2021. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/clematis-integrifolia/.
