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Description
Clematis Viticella Purpurea Plena Elegans, also known as Double Purple Clematis, is a deciduous climbing vine that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is a hybrid plant that was first introduced in the 1800s and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its stunning double purple flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Clematis |
Appearance
The Double Purple Clematis can grow up to 10-12 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. It has green leaves that are divided into leaflets, and its stems are woody and twine around any support it can find. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer, producing showy double purple flowers that are 3-4 inches in diameter. The flowers are followed by fluffy seed heads that add interest to the plant in the fall.
Care Guide
Clematis Viticella Purpurea Plena Elegans is an easy-to-grow plant that requires regular care to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, and again in midsummer.
- Soil: Plant the Double Purple Clematis in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide some shade during the hottest part of the day in hot climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The Double Purple Clematis is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Double Purple Clematis is generally a healthy plant and is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaves to curl and distort. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew holes in the leaves and cause damage to the plant. Use slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
- Wilt: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Double Purple Clematis is native to Europe and can be found growing in woodlands, hedgerows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I prune my Double Purple Clematis?
A: Prune your plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove dead or damaged wood, and cut back the remaining stems to 12-18 inches above the ground.
Q: Can I grow the Double Purple Clematis in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and the plant has something to climb on.
Q: Will the Double Purple Clematis attract butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers are attractive to butterflies and other pollinators.
Q: How long does it take for the Double Purple Clematis to bloom?
A: The plant blooms in late spring or early summer, usually within the first year of planting.
Related Plants
- Clematis montana
- Clematis tangutica
- Clematis viticella
- Clematis terniflora
References
- “Clematis viticella ‘Purpurea Plena Elegans’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279774&isprofile=0&basic=Clematis%20viticella.
- “Clematis viticella ‘Purpurea Plena Elegans’.” RHS, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7848/i-Clematis-viticella-i-Purpurea-Plena-Elegans/Details.
- “Clematis viticella Purpurea Plena Elegans.” North Carolina State University, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/clematis-viticella-purpurea-plena-elegans/.
