Clematis Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' (PBR) (LL)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' is known for its vibrant floral display. This plant produces large, eye-catching flowers that are a deep magenta color, often with a satiny sheen that catches the light beautifully. Each flower consists of several pointed petals that radiate from a central point, creating a star-like shape. The blooms are characterized by their velvety texture and can have a subtle or pronounced gradient, with richer coloring at the margins of the petals and slightly paler shades towards the base. The stamens in the center of each flower appear prominently, offering a contrasting hue with their pale anthers that stand out against the deep color of the petals. The foliage of Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' is also notable. The leaves are typically bright green, with a shiny, somewhat leathery texture that provide a lush backdrop for the spectacular blooms. They grow in opposite pairs along the plant's climbing stems, with each leaf being divided into leaflets that have smooth edges and a slightly undulated surface, giving them an attractive texture. As a climbing plant, Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' relies on its twining leaf petioles to grasp onto support structures. It is commonly cultivated on trellises, fences, or arbors, where it can showcase its ornamental qualities while ascending. The overall appearance of this clematis variety is one of elegance and vibrancy, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color and vertical interest to their planting schemes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Barbara Harrington Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' (PBR) (LL).
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including the variety 'Barbara Harrington', contains compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant has irritants known as protoanemonin that are released when the plant is chewed or otherwise injured. If ingested, clematis can cause severe mouth pain, and if swallowed, symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation may occur. Skin contact with the plant's sap can also cause dermatitis in some individuals. It is essential to handle clematis with care and to avoid ingesting any part of the plant.
To pets
Clematis, such as 'Barbara Harrington', can be toxic to pets. Similar to its effects in humans, the plant contains irritants like protoanemonin, which can cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to symptoms such as mouth ulcers or difficulty swallowing due to irritation of the mouth or throat. Direct contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation in some pets. It is advisable to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting any part of the clematis plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
8 feet (2.44 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Varies
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' adds visual interest to gardens with its vibrant pink flowers.
- Vertical Gardening: This clematis is ideal for vertical gardening as it climbs trellises and walls, saving space and adding dimension.
- Seasonal Interest: It blooms profusely in late spring to early summer, offering seasonal beauty.
- Attracts Wildlife: The plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: It is known for being relatively easy to cultivate, requiring minimal maintenance once established.
- Longevity: Being a perennial, it provides long-term interest and reduces the need for annual planting.
- Hide Unsightly Features: This clematis can cover unsightly areas of the garden, such as walls or old fences.
- Versatility: It can be planted in containers or in the ground, providing options for gardeners with limited space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis vine can be trained to grow on unusual structures, such as old furniture or garden sculptures, to add a whimsical touch to your outdoor space.
- The sprawling nature of Clematis makes it an excellent plant for disguising unsightly garden features like compost bins or utility boxes.
- Clematis can be used as a natural privacy screen when grown on a trellis or fence between properties.
- The plant can provide seasonal interest when allowed to climb through deciduous trees, adding summer blooms that appear to float amongst the branches.
- Clematis branches, when pruned, can be woven into decorative wreaths or used as a base for crafting due to their flexibility.
- Dried Clematis seed heads can be used in floral arrangements for unique texture and visual interest.
- When grown in containers, Clematis can add height and drama to balcony gardens or rooftop terraces.
- Clematis vines can be used as living curtains to shade a sunny patio or porch area during the hot summer months.
- Clematis can be incorporated into a sensory garden; the texture of its leaves and stems provides a tactile experience.
- Photographers and artists might use the striking Clematis flowers as a natural backdrop for portraits or still-life 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- Mental Agility: Clematis plants, in general, are often associated with intelligence and the ability to think clearly, possibly due to their intricate and delicate-looking flowers which suggest complexity and thoughtfulness.
- Ingeniousness: The vine's climbing nature signifies an ability to navigate challenges, much like a person who exhibits resourcefulness and ingenuity in their approach to life's problems.
- Beauty and Artistry: With its vibrant and large-colored blooms, 'Barbara Harrington' epitomizes beauty, suggesting a person who appreciates and seeks out the aesthetic aspects of life.
- Personal Growth: As a climbing plant that needs support to reach its full potential, Clematis symbolizes the idea of personal growth, with the support of others being a crucial component in one's own development.
WaterThe Clematis 'Barbara Harrington', commonly known as the Clematis, prefers a consistent watering schedule to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly once a week with about 1 gallon of water, increasing to twice a week during hot, dry periods. It is crucial to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. For container-grown Clematis, ensure proper drainage and adjust watering to maintain moisture levels, especially in the growing season.
LightThe Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day, while ensuring that the roots and base of the plant are shaded or mulched to stay cool. An eastern-facing location that provides morning sun and dappled afternoon shade would be an optimal spot for this plant.
TemperatureThe Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' can withstand a broad range of temperatures but performs best when the temperature is between 60°F to 75°F. It can survive winter temperatures down to about 20°F but may suffer damage below this point. During the peak growing season, maintain a consistent temperature to ensure optimal growth and blooming.
PruningPrune the Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' to encourage strong growth and flowering. It requires pruning in late winter or early spring, cutting back the previous year's growth to a pair of strong buds about 1 foot above ground level. Pruning helps prevent overcrowding, promotes better air circulation, and allows for a more robust display of flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis 'Barbara Harrington' prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.5. A good mix is one part compost, one part perlite or coarse sand, and two parts garden soil to ensure nutrient-richness and adequate drainage. Mulching can help keep the root zone cool and moist.
RepottingClematis 'Barbara Harrington' generally does not need to be repotted often; it is typically done every 2 to 3 years. Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the previous, as too much space can hinder flowering.
Humidity & MistingClematis 'Barbara Harrington' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels; however, it thrives best in environments with average humidity. It does not require the high humidity that some more tropical plants may crave.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place near a bright window, provide support, keep root zone cool.
Outdoor
Plant in sun or part-shade, mulch roots, provide climbing support.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Clematis 'Barbara Harrington' starts its life as a seed, which after being sown and given the right conditions of moisture and temperature, will germinate and sprout. This young plant, or seedling, will then develop a root system and shoots, which will begin to vine and climb if provided with support. As it matures, 'Barbara Harrington' enters a vigorous stage of growth where it will produce large amounts of foliage and begin to form flower buds. The plant reaches full bloom in late spring to early summer, showcasing its characteristic vibrant pink flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, it will produce seed heads, which can be harvested for propagation or left to disperse seeds naturally for the cycle to continue. Eventually, as colder weather approaches, the plant will enter dormancy, with foliage dying back, and it will conserve energy in its root system until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Clematis 'Barbara Harrington', commonly known as Clematis, is propagated primarily by cuttings. This is often done in late spring to early summer, when the plant's growth is vigorous. For this method, a gardener would take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long from a healthy stem, just below a set of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone before it is planted in a moist soilless potting mix. The cutting should then be covered with plastic to maintain humidity and placed in indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new Clematis plant can be transferred to a larger pot or directly to its final location in the garden.
