Clematis Viticella Royal Velours is a deciduous climber plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is native to Southern Europe, specifically in the Mediterranean region. It is commonly known as the ‘Royal Velours’ as it produces velvety, deep purple flowers that bloom profusely in mid-summer to early autumn.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Clematis |
Appearance
Clematis Viticella Royal Velours is a vigorous climber plant that can grow up to 12 feet tall. It has a twining habit with woody stems that can become quite thick over time. The leaves are mid-green, pinnate, and measure up to 6 inches long. The velvety, deep purple flowers of Royal Velours are 3-4 inches wide with four to eight petals that surround a tuft of golden stamens in the center. The flowers bloom from June to September and are followed by fluffy seed heads.
Care Guide
Clematis Viticella Royal Velours is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and midsummer.
- Soil: Royal Velours prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly alkaline. Add organic matter to the soil before planting.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. However, it is important to keep the roots cool, so it is advisable to plant it in a spot where the base of the plant is in the shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Royal Velours is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clematis Viticella Royal Velours is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant.
- Clematis wilt: This is a fungal disease that can cause the stems to wilt and die. It can be treated with fungicides and by pruning the affected stems.
Habitat
Clematis Viticella Royal Velours is native to Southern Europe, specifically in the Mediterranean region. It is commonly found growing in sunny positions on rocky slopes, in scrublands, and in woodland edges. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to prune Royal Velours?
A: The best time to prune Royal Velours is in late winter or early spring before the new growth emerges. Pruning should be done to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems, and to shape the plant if necessary.
Q: Can Royal Velours grow in a container?
A: Yes, Royal Velours can be grown in a container. However, it is important to provide a large enough container to accommodate the root system, and to ensure that the plant has adequate support.
Q: How often should I fertilize Royal Velours?
A: Royal Velours should be fertilized twice a year, in early spring and midsummer. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Q: How do I propagate Royal Velours?
A: Royal Velours can be propagated by layering or by taking cuttings in late spring or early summer. Layering involves bending a stem down to the ground and covering it with soil. The stem will eventually develop roots and can be cut from the parent plant. Cuttings should be taken from non-flowering stems and should be about 4 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Clematis viticella ‘Alba Luxurians’
- Clematis viticella ‘Etoile Violette’
- Clematis viticella ‘Madame Julia Correvon’
- Clematis viticella ‘Purpurea Plena Elegans’
References
- “Clematis Viticella ‘Royal Velours'” The Spruce, 2021.
- “Clematis Viticella ‘Royal Velours'” RHS, 2021.
- “Clematis Viticella ‘Royal Velours'” Gardenia, 2021.
