Clematis Clematis 'Aotearoa' (LL)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Aotearoa', well known for its decorative appeal, is a flowering vine that adorns many gardens. This particular cultivar bears an abundance of large, striking flowers. Each blossom is composed of broad petals, usually exhibiting a deep, rich purple hue that can add a touch of elegance to any setting. The petals often have a velvety sheen and may showcase a subtler pinkish or reddish bar down the center, which adds to their visual interest. Encircling the prominent stamens, the flower centers are often lighter in color, creating an eye-catching contrast with the vibrant petals. When in bloom, the Clematis 'Aotearoa' is a stunning mass of color. Its twining leaf stems wrap around supports, enabling the vine to climb and drape gracefully. The leaves are green, sometimes with a slight sheen, forming an attractive backdrop that highlights the flowers. The overall aesthetic of this plant is one of classic charm, and it is often used in gardens to cover walls, trellises, or arbors, bringing with them a romantic, cottage-garden feel.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Clematis 'Aotearoa'.
Common names
Clematis 'Aotearoa' (LL)
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis 'Aotearoa', commonly known as clematis, contains compounds that can cause toxicity if ingested by humans. These compounds, known as protoanemonins, are present in most parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and flowers. When a person ingests clematis, it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. Mouth irritation with ulcers can occur if the plant is chewed. In severe cases, there may also be symptoms of dizziness, convulsions, or even an increased heartbeat. It is essential to avoid ingesting clematis and to seek medical attention if any parts of the plant are consumed. The toxicity of clematis is generally considered to be moderate, and fatalities are rare but can occur, especially if large quantities of the plant are ingested.
To pets
Clematis 'Aotearoa', commonly known as clematis, is also toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The plant contains irritant glycosides, which can result in symptoms of poisoning if your pet consumes any part of the plant. These symptoms might include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and possible gastrointestinal upset. In some cases, pets might also show signs of lethargy or depression. Severity can vary depending on the amount ingested and the size of the pet. It is important to prevent your pets from accessing clematis and to consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect that they have ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
7-9
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Produces large, deep purple blooms that add a vibrant touch of color to any garden.
- Long Blooming Period: Flowers from late spring to early autumn, offering extended visual interest.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Can be trained to climb trellises, fences, and arbors, or allowed to grow along the ground as ground cover.
- Attracts Wildlife: Bees and butterflies are drawn to the flowers, aiding in pollination and supporting biodiversity.
- Improves Aesthetics: Helps cover unsightly areas and can be used to add vertical interest in the landscape.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to a wide range of soils, making it accessible for many gardeners.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis 'Aotearoa' can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of hues depending on the mordant used.
- The vine's ability to climb makes it an ideal living curtain for privacy on patios or terraces.
- Floral artists often use clematis in arrangements to add vertical interest and a touch of elegance.
- In crafting, the dried flowers can be used to create unique bookmarks or pressed flower art.
- Photographers sometimes use clematis in their compositions to capture the beauty of the garden at different times of the day and seasons.
- The durable, fibrous stems can be woven to create natural garden ties or elements of decorative wreaths.
- As a natural shade provider, clematis is perfect for covering unsightly structures like old fences or sheds.
- You can train the clematis to grow over frames to form garden sculptures or living art pieces.
- The attractive seed heads of clematis can be used for winter interest in the garden or as part of dry flower arrangements.
- Clematis 'Aotearoa' can be used in educational settings, such as schools or botanical gardens, to teach about plant growth habits and support insect life.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mental Agility: Clematis is often associated with cleverness and the ability to think quickly, due to its fast-growing nature.
- Creativity: Its profuse blooms and the way it drapes and climbs suggest creativity and finding unique paths.
- Ingenuity: As a climbing plant, Clematis symbolizes the ability to navigate through complex situations, finding support and overcoming obstacles.
- Aspiration: With its vines reaching upwards, it represents striving for higher goals and aspirations.
- Spiritual Quest: The plant is symbolic of a spiritual journey, as it seems to stretch and grow towards the heavens.
- Beauty and Art: The attractive flowers of the Clematis 'Aotearoa' suggest appreciation for beauty and often represent artistic or aesthetic ideals.
WaterThe Clematis 'Aotearoa', also known as Clematis, prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered thoroughly once a week with about 1 gallon of water. During the hotter, drier months, water it twice a week. Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging. Decrease watering during the fall and winter to prevent root rot. Always check the top inch of the soil before watering to make sure it isn't already moist.
LightClematis 'Aotearoa' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight a day, but also have some protection from the intense afternoon sun. An eastern or northern facing spot can provide the ideal light conditions for the Clematis.
TemperatureClematis 'Aotearoa' performs well within a temperature range of 50°F to 75°F, which is ideal for vigorous growth. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to around 20°F and maximum temperatures up to about 85°F. However, prolonged exposure outside of the 50°F to 75°F range can stress the plant.
PruningPruning Clematis 'Aotearoa' is important to promote strong growth and flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring, removing dead or weak stems before new growth begins. This variety typically flowers on new wood, so cutting it back to a height of 12 inches each year can encourage a robust display. Prune immediately after the blooming phase to shape the plant and remove any tangled or damaged stems.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis, commonly called the Queen of the Vines, requires well-draining soil with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.0. A mix of loamy garden soil, compost, and well-rotted manure is ideal, providing good fertility and moisture retention. Mulching the base with organic material helps maintain an even soil temperature.
RepottingThe Queen of the Vines typically does not need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same spot for several years. However, if growth is stunted or soil is depleted, repotting every 3-4 years may be beneficial.
Humidity & MistingClematis prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Providing good air circulation to prevent overly humid conditions is key to keeping this plant healthy.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, provide support, and mulch root area.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Aotearoa' begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination grows into a young seedling. The seedling develops into a vine with a strong root system and climbing stems that seek out support structures to grow on. As the plant matures, it produces large, showy flowers, usually in the spring or early summer, which are pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of seed heads. These seeds, once mature, are dispersed by wind or other means, potentially beginning a new cycle of growth if they land in a suitable environment. In the winter or dormant season, the above-ground parts of the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, while the root system remains alive underground. With the return of warmer weather, the clematis will sprout new growth from its roots, continuing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Clematis 'Aotearoa', often simply referred to as Clematis, is through softwood cuttings. This procedure is generally carried out in the spring, when the plant's new growth is just beginning to harden. The cutting should include at least two sets of nodes, a section of the stem about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful rooting. The cutting is then placed in well-drained, moist potting mix and covered with a plastic bag or placed in a propagator to maintain humidity. Roots usually develop after a few weeks, after which the new Clematis plant can eventually be acclimatized to outdoor conditions and planted in a permanent location.
