Known by many as Virgin's bower or traveller's joy, the 200 species in this genus belong to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) and ecompass a wide range of plants. Mainly climbing or scrambling, through sometimes shrubby or perennial, deciduous or evergreen; flowering at any time and in any color; occurring in both northern and southern temperate zones and at higher altitudes in the tropics-there seems to be a clematis for any season and place. Their leaves may be simple or pinnate, and their flowers are nearly always showy, with 4 to 8 petallike sepals. Numerous fluffy seed heads follow. The name Virgin's bower comes from a German legend that Mary and Jesus sheltered under clematis during their flight into Egypt.
CULTIVATION
The general rule is that the foliage should be in the sun while the roots are kept cool and moist. Incorporate plenty of humus-rich compost before planting, and water well. Clematis wilt disease is a problem in many areas. Propagate from cuttings or by layering. Species may be raised from seed but sex will be undetermined before flowering.
Top Tip
Clematis vines can become tangled; they need yearly pruning to achieve maximum flowering. Pruning techniques vary, depending on the plant group.
CULTIVATION
The general rule is that the foliage should be in the sun while the roots are kept cool and moist. Incorporate plenty of humus-rich compost before planting, and water well. Clematis wilt disease is a problem in many areas. Propagate from cuttings or by layering. Species may be raised from seed but sex will be undetermined before flowering.
Top Tip
Clematis vines can become tangled; they need yearly pruning to achieve maximum flowering. Pruning techniques vary, depending on the plant group.
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