Clematis Bells of Emei Shan Clematis repens 'Bells of Emei Shan'
ABOUT
Clematis repens 'Bells of Emei Shan' is a climbing plant notable for its attractive and profuse blooms. The flowers of the Clematis have an alluring bell shape, which gives the plant its name. These bells often display a gentle white shade, with a subtle hint of pale cream or green on the outside. Inside the blossoms, you may find a more pronounced coloring that adds depth and interest. A delicate texture can be observed on the petals, which can give them a soft, almost velvety appeal. The foliage of Clematis 'Bells of Emei Shan' is typically lush and green, consisting of simple leaves that provide a pleasing backdrop to the striking flowers. This Clematis variety may produce flowers from late spring to fall, offering a long season of visual enjoyment. As a climbing plant, it typically requires some form of support and can be trained to grow along trellises or other garden structures, where it can showcase its flowering beauty at eye level or above, contributing to an enchanting vertical element in the garden landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Emei Shan Clematis, Bells of Emei Shan.
Common names
Clematis repens 'Bells of Emei Shan'.
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including varieties such as 'Bells of Emei Shan', contain compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains irritant glycosides, which, when the plant is chewed or ingested, can cause symptoms including but not limited to mouth pain, salivation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, internal bleeding. Contact with the skin can also lead to dermatitis in some individuals. Handling the plant is generally considered safe, but consuming parts of the Clematis can lead to the aforementioned symptoms and should be avoided.
To pets
Clematis, such as 'Bells of Emei Shan', is also toxic to pets if ingested. The plant contains irritant glycosides which can lead to symptoms including drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes more serious symptoms such as ataxia or convulsions in severe cases. It is important to prevent pets from chewing or ingesting any part of the Clematis to avoid these toxic effects. If ingestion occurs, it is recommended to seek veterinary attention immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds visual appeal to gardens with its profuse, bell-shaped flowers and attractive foliage.
- Garden Diversity: Introduces variety through its unique flowers and climbing growth habit.
- Wildlife Attraction: Flowers provide nectar and pollen for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Versatility: Suitable for trellises, walls, and fences, making it a versatile addition to different garden designs.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a change in garden scenery with its seasonal blooming and growth patterns.
- Shade Creation: When grown on pergolas or arbors, it can provide a natural shade area.
- Privacy: Can be used to create a natural privacy screen when grown on structures.
- Easy Propagation: Can be easily propagated by cuttings, which allows gardeners to share and spread the plant.
- Cultural Significance: Often associated with good luck and has a place in various garden traditions.
- Garden Structure: Can help define the garden space and create visual layers through strategic planting.
- Space Maximization: As a climber, it maximizes vertical space in small gardens.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Barrier: Clematis repens can be trained to grow over trellises or other frameworks to create a natural barrier that some garden insects may find difficult to cross.
- Fragrance Source: Due to its pleasant scent, Clematis repens can be placed in strategic locations to provide natural fragrance to a garden or patio area.
- Educational Resource: The unique qualities of Clematis repens 'Bells of Emei Shan' can be used by educators to teach botany and plant biology.
- Art and Craft: Pressed flowers of Clematis repens can be used in craft projects such as making bookmarks, greeting cards, or decorative pieces.
- Photographic Subject: The distinctive flowers of Clematis repens make it a desirable subject for photographers specializing in plant and garden imagery.
- Living Fence: When grown densely, it can act as a living fence or privacy screen in gardens or along property boundaries.
- Theme Gardens: This plant can be used to create a specific garden theme, such as a 'purple garden', due to its striking purple-colored blooms.
- Habitat Creation: It can offer shelter and climbing surfaces for beneficial garden creatures like spiders and lizards.
- Soil Stabilization: The plant's root system can help to prevent soil erosion on slopes or areas prone to runoff.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly known for its edibility, the flowers of Clematis repens could potentially be used as a decorative, edible garnish for certain dishes after ensuring they are safe to consume.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Clematis can grow in diverse conditions, reflecting the ability to persevere and adapt.
- Beauty: With its appealing flowers, clematis symbolizes natural beauty and aesthetics.
- Mental Agility: The plant's climbing nature is seen as a metaphor for intellectual growth and the pursuit of knowledge.
- Artistic Inspiration: The striking appearance of clematis blooms is often associated with creativity and the muse of artists.
- Traveler's Joy: In some cultures, clematis represents safe travels and the joy of exploring new places.
WaterThe Clematis repens 'Bells of Emei Shan', also known as Sugar Bells Clematis, prefers consistent moisture but does not do well with waterlogged roots. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon per plant each time to ensure the root zone is thoroughly moistened. During hot and dry periods, increase watering frequency to twice a week, while in cooler weather or if rainfall is adequate, you can reduce watering accordingly. Ensure the plant has good drainage to prevent root rot. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and reduce watering frequency.
LightSugar Bells Clematis thrives best in a location with full sun to partial shade. It's ideal to plant it where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. However, providing some afternoon shade in hot climates can prevent the leaves from scorching. The roots and base of the plant appreciate being kept cool, so consider planting low-growing shrubs or perennials near the base or using a thick layer of mulch to provide shade for the root area.
TemperatureFor the Sugar Bells Clematis, it's vital to maintain a temperature range that doesn't fall below 25 degrees Fahrenheit, as this can harm the plant. The plant is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 6 through 9, thriving at temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate brief periods of colder temperatures down to 25 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to such cold or freezing temperatures can be detrimental to its health and growth.
PruningPrune the Sugar Bells Clematis to encourage strong growth and flowering. This plant falls in pruning group 3, meaning it flowers on the current year's growth. Prune in late winter or early spring, cutting back all the previous year's stems to a pair of strong buds about 12 inches above the ground. Pruning this way promotes a more compact plant with more flowers. Pruning should be done annually to maintain the best shape and health of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Old Man's Beard prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix that includes compost, loamy soil, and peat or finely ground bark, with some perlite or vermiculite to enhance drainage, is ideal.
RepottingOld Man's Beard should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Repot in spring before active growth starts.
Humidity & MistingOld Man's Beard thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, typically around 50-70%. Avoid excessively dry air to maintain healthy foliage.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and well-draining soil mix.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Clematis repens 'Bells of Emei Shan', commonly known as Clematis, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically occurring in a moist and well-draining environment. After germination, the seedling emerges and gradually matures into a vine, exhibiting rapid vegetative growth supported by a climbing habit using tendrils. This Clematis variety enters a flowering stage in late spring to summer, producing bell-shaped flowers with a distinctive coloration that attracts pollinators. Post-pollination, flowers develop into seed heads, containing seeds that will disseminate to propagate the next generation. In fall, the plant may undergo partial dieback, where above-ground growth retreats but the root system remains viable. Upon the return of favorable conditions in the following spring, the Clematis resumes growth from the rootstock, continuing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Clematis repens 'Bells of Emei Shan', commonly known as Emei Shan clematis, is via layering, which is best performed in late winter or early spring before the plant begins its active growth. To layer, select a healthy, flexible stem and gently bend it to the ground, securing it in place with a U-shaped pin. Next, make a small incision or remove a sliver of bark at the point of contact with the soil to encourage rooting, then cover this portion of the stem with soil while ensuring that the tip of the stem is exposed. Water the area to keep it moist and roots should develop within a few months. Once the stem has rooted, it can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to the desired location.
