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Description
Clematis The Countess Of Wessex, also known as Clematis ‘Evipo099’, is a deciduous vine that can grow up to 6 feet tall. It is a member of the Ranunculaceae family and is a hybrid of Clematis florida and Clematis viticella. It was bred by Raymond Evison and introduced in 2005. The plant is named after Sophie Rhys-Jones, the Countess of Wessex, who is a member of the British royal family.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Clematis |
Appearance
The Countess Of Wessex produces large, double, mauve-pink flowers that can reach up to 5 inches in diameter. The petals are ruffled and have a hint of red at the center. The plant blooms in early summer and can rebloom in late summer or early fall. The foliage is dark green and ovate with a leathery texture. The stems are twining and can cling to structures or trellises.
Care Guide
The Countess Of Wessex prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It needs to be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. The plant should be fertilized in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. It requires full sun to partial shade and should be planted in a location that is sheltered from strong winds. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Countess Of Wessex is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Spider mites and aphids can also infest the plant. Regular inspection and treatment with fungicides or insecticides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
The Countess Of Wessex is native to Europe and Asia but is widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes throughout the world. It can be grown as a specimen plant or trained to climb on structures such as trellises, fences, or walls.
Question and Answer
Q: Can The Countess Of Wessex grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should The Countess Of Wessex be pruned?
A: The plant should be pruned in early spring or late fall to remove dead or damaged wood and to control its size. It can also be lightly pruned after the first flush of blooms to encourage reblooming.
Q: Does The Countess Of Wessex attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its showy flowers.
Q: Can The Countess Of Wessex be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Clematis florida
- Clematis viticella
- Clematis Nubia
- Clematis Blue Angel
- Clematis Pink Champagne
References
- Evison, R. (2005). Clematis ‘Countess of Wessex’. International Clematis Society.
- Dirr, M. A. (2004). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Pub Llc.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Clematis ‘The Countess of Wessex’.
