Clematis Kirilowii, also known as Purple Bell Vine or Purple Clematis, is a deciduous climbing plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Eastern Asia, particularly China, Korea, and Japan. It is a popular choice among gardeners due to its beautiful purple or pink bell-shaped flowers, which bloom in late summer to early fall. This plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and 6 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for trellises, fences, and walls.
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Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Clematis |
Appearance
Clematis Kirilowii has a twining habit, which means that it climbs by wrapping its leaf stalks around any support it can find. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate-shaped, with a length of up to 6 inches. The flowers are bell-shaped, with a diameter of 1 to 2 inches, and have four to six petals. The color of the flowers can vary from deep purple to pink. The plant’s stems are woody, and the bark is brownish-gray.
Care Guide
Clematis Kirilowii is a low-maintenance plant, but it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, and then again in midsummer.
- Soil: Plant Clematis Kirilowii in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. However, it may need some shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: Clematis Kirilowii is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clematis Kirilowii is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf discoloration and webbing.
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause curled leaves and stunted growth.
- Clematis wilt: This fungal disease can cause the leaves to wilt and turn brown or black.
Habitat
Clematis Kirilowii is native to Eastern Asia, particularly in China, Korea, and Japan. It thrives in temperate climates and prefers well-draining soil. It can be found growing in forests, along streams, and on hillsides. This plant can also be grown in gardens and landscapes as a climbing vine.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Clematis Kirilowii grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can grow in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune Clematis Kirilowii?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged stems and cut back the remaining stems to two or three buds.
Q: Can I propagate Clematis Kirilowii?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant by taking stem cuttings in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Q: How long does it take for Clematis Kirilowii to bloom?
A: The plant typically blooms in late summer to early fall, about 2 to 3 months after planting.
Related Plants
- Clematis montana
- Clematis viticella
- Clematis armandii
- Clematis tangutica
References
- “Clematis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277556.
- “Clematis Kirilowii.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19142/Clematis-Kirilowii/Details.
- “Purple Clematis.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/clematis-kirilowii-purple-clematis.
