Clematis Clematis 'Barbara Dibley' (EL)
ABOUT
The Clematis 'Barbara Dibley' is a visually striking climbing plant known for its magnificent flowers. It showcases an abundant display of large, velvety blooms that have a deep magenta or fuchsia hue, which makes them standout remarkably against the plant's green foliage. The petals are broad and often have a slightly rounded, overlapping quality that adds to the fullness of each flower. At the center of the blooms, you'll typically find a contrasting cluster of stamen that have creamy to yellowish anthers, which adds an extra layer of interest to the already eye-catching flowers. The foliage consists of green leaves which are compound, often with multiple leaflets per leaf, providing a lush backdrop for the vivid floral display. This clematis can bring a vertical element of vibrant color to gardens, often used to adorn trellises, walls, or arbors, creating a tapestry of color that evolves through its blooming season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Barbara Dibley Clematis, Early Large-flowered Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Barbara Dibley' (EL)
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including the 'Barbara Dibley' variety, can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal tract irritation. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. In some cases, skin contact with clematis may also cause dermatitis. Generally, the severity of symptoms depends on the quantity consumed, and medical attention should be sought in case of ingestion.
To pets
Clematis, inclusive of the 'Barbara Dibley' cultivar, is also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests the plant, it may suffer from symptoms similar to those in humans, such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, there could be signs of trembling, lethargy, or other neurological symptoms. Pet owners should ensure that this plant is out of reach from their animals and should contact a veterinarian immediately if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of clematis.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Blooms: Clematis 'Barbara Dibley' features vibrant violet-magenta flowers that can add a splash of color to gardens and outdoor spaces.
- Vertical Interest: This clematis variety is a climber, which can provide vertical interest to gardens, covering walls, trellises, or arbors.
- Seasonal Change: The plant offers changing visual interest throughout the seasons with its different growth stages and flowering period.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of the clematis can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, benefiting the local ecosystem.
- Privacy: When grown on structures, it can create a natural privacy screen for outdoor living spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis can be used in the creation of natural dyes, with the 'Barbara Dibley' variety providing unique shades depending on the mordant used.
- The fibers from clematis stems can serve as material for weaving small baskets or crafting homemade paper.
- Crushed leaves and stems may act as a mild natural insect repellent when spread around certain areas of a garden.
- In eco-printing, the leaves and flowers of clematis can be bundled with fabric to leave beautiful imprints on cloth.
- When dried, the vine can be twisted and coiled to form the basis of a rustic wreath for home decoration.
- The climber's robust structure allows it to act as a living trellis for lighter, more delicate climbing plants in the garden.
- Clematis petals can be scattered on the surface of a water feature for a natural, decorative effect.
- Decorative arts can utilize the unique shapes of clematis leaves and flowers for botanical illustrations and nature-inspired designs.
- The strong vines of older plants can be used to make unique and naturalistic garden ties for supporting other plants.
- Photographers and artists often use the vibrant colors of clematis blooms as a natural backdrop or for inspiration in their compositions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Ingenuity: The Clematis 'Barbara Dibley', like other clematis plants, is known for its ability to climb and adapt to various structures, reflecting a symbol of inventive and resourceful problem-solving in the plant world.
- Mental Beauty: With its stunning and vibrant flowers, this clematis variety is often associated with the beauty of the mind and spirit, suggesting that true beauty comes from within.
- Artistic Inspiration: The bright magenta flowers of the 'Barbara Dibley' can inspire creativity and artistry, making it a symbol for those who seek inspiration in their creative endeavors.
- Perseverance: As a climber that persists and flourishes in various conditions, Clematis 'Barbara Dibley' represents perseverance and the ability to thrive despite challenges.
- Personal Growth: This plant's climbing nature also symbolizes personal growth and the continuous journey of improving and reaching for higher goals.
WaterThe Clematis, including 'Barbara Dibley', typically requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during its growing season in spring and summer. Water the plant thoroughly once a week with about 1 gallon of water, making adjustments for rainfall and temperature. During dry spells or hot weather, you may need to water twice a week. In the winter months, reduce watering since the plant is dormant and its water requirements decrease.
LightClematis 'Barbara Dibley' thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions, which means it should receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. The ideal spot would be where the roots are shaded or mulched but the foliage is exposed to sunlight, which encourages blooming and healthy growth.
TemperatureClematis 'Barbara Dibley' can survive in a temperature range from about 50°F to 85°F, with the ideal growing conditions being between 65°F and 75°F. These plants are hardy and can tolerate winter temperatures down to about -20°F, but they grow best when sudden temperature fluctuations are avoided.
PruningPruning your Clematis 'Barbara Dibley' is essential to maintain vigor and maximize flowering. It should be pruned in late winter or early spring before active growth begins. Depending on the age and condition of the plant, remove weak or dead stems, and cut back remaining stems to a strong pair of buds. Pruning encourages healthy new growth and improves air circulation.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Clematis 'Barbara Dibley', a well-draining soil mix is essential, composed of loam, compost, and well-rotted manure to provide nutrients and structure. A slightly alkaline to neutral pH of around 7 is preferred.
RepottingClematis 'Barbara Dibley' generally does not require frequent repotting due to its climbing nature; repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and check root health.
Humidity & MistingClematis 'Barbara Dibley', like many climbing plants, prefers a moderate humidity level around 50-70%, avoiding excessively dry or highly humid conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light, and support for climbing.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, provide climbing support.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Barbara Dibley', commonly referred to as Barbara Dibley Clematis, begins its life cycle as a dormant plant with a robust root system when initially planted. In early spring, it starts its vegetative growth phase with the emergence of new shoots from the base or from nodes of old stems. As the season progresses, these vines rapidly develop leathery, green leaves, and by late spring to early summer, it enters its flowering stage, producing large, vibrant purple-pink flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, some species may produce decorative, plumed seed heads that disperse seeds for reproduction, although many cultivated varieties like 'Barbara Dibley' are propagated vegetatively from cuttings or layering. In the fall, the foliage may lose its vigor as the plant begins to enter dormancy, conserving energy in its roots through the winter months. With the return of spring, the clematis completes its annual cycle, regrowing and preparing for another season of blooming.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Clematis 'Barbara Dibley', a striking flowering vine, is often propagated through layering or stem cuttings, particularly during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. One popular method is taking softwood cuttings, which involves selecting a healthy piece of new growth, around 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long, and making a clean cut just below a set of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and any large remaining leaves are cut in half to reduce water loss through transpiration. The cut end of the stem is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and then planted in a mixture of peat and perlite or a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist but not overly wet, in bright indirect light until roots have formed—usually within a few weeks to a couple of months.
