Clematis Black Prince Clematis 'Black Prince' (Vt)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Black Prince' is a striking climbing plant known for its showy flowers. The blooms are the most captivating feature, characterized by their dramatic, deep velvety purple petals which can sometimes appear almost black in certain light. These petals are lush and rounded with a slightly ruffled edge, creating a sumptuous display. At the center of the flower, there's a prominent tuft of creamy yellow stamens that contrast beautifully against the dark petals, giving the flowers a regal appearance. The foliage of the Clematis 'Black Prince' is equally attractive, with bright green leaves that provide a lovely backdrop to the spectacular flowers. The leaves are compound, typically comprising of several leaflets, which are often oval to lance-shaped with a pointed tip and smooth margin. The plant has a twining habit, with stems that gracefully climb and clamber over structures such as trellises, arbors, or fences, adding vertical interest to gardens or outdoor spaces. The overall appearance of the Clematis 'Black Prince' is one of elegance and sophistication, with its luxurious blooms and lush foliage making it a prized addition to any garden display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Black Prince Clematis, Velvet Clematis.
Common names
Clematis viticella 'Black Prince'.
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including the variety 'Black Prince', contains compounds that can cause toxicity if ingested. They contain protoanemonin, which can result in mild to severe digestive upset. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. In severe cases, it can lead to internal bleeding and organ damage. Skin contact can sometimes cause irritation and dermatitis, so care should also be taken to avoid handling the plant with bare hands if sensitive. Consumption of any part of the clematis plant should be avoided.
To pets
Clematis, including the 'Black Prince' variety, is also toxic to pets if ingested. Similar to humans, pets may experience symptoms of poisoning such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and possible mouth and gastrointestinal irritation due to the protoanemonin. In severe instances, ingestion can lead to more serious health issues such as seizures or even coma in extreme cases. Avoid allowing pets to chew on any part of a clematis plant. If ingestion occurs, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Clematis 'Black Prince' offers striking dark purple flowers that add visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility: This plant can be used for various landscaping purposes including as a climbing vine for trellises, fences, or arbors.
- Ease of Cultivation: It is relatively easy to grow and maintain, tolerating a range of soil types and conditions.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which can enhance the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Seasonal Interest: Clematis 'Black Prince' provides seasonal interest with its blooms typically appearing in late spring to early summer.
- Screening: When grown on structures, it can provide a natural screen for privacy or to hide unsightly areas.
- Shade: When planted in areas with sufficient support, it can create shaded spaces underneath its foliage and flowers.
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 as an inspirational subject in art and photography due to its deep purple, almost black flowers, offering striking contrast and intricate textures for artists.
- The vine is suitable for creating natural privacy screens on balconies or patios when trained to climb trellises or fences.
- Its dried seed heads can be incorporated into floral arrangements or wreaths to add a unique, architectural dimension.
- Clematis can be used in educational settings such as schools or botanical gardens to teach about plant growth habits and climbing mechanisms.
- The plant's climbing nature makes it an excellent choice for theme gardens, such as fairy or vertical gardens, to create an enchanting atmosphere.
- The flowers can serve as a colorful backdrop for photographing insects, birds, or other small wildlife that may visit the garden.
- Clematis can be utilized as a live curtain to shade sensitive plants from harsh sunlight when strategically placed in the garden.
- In craft projects, the vines can be woven into baskets or other decorative items before they become too woody.
- Its rapid growth can be harnessed for use in school science projects or time-lapse videos to study and observe plant development.
- The vine can also be trained to grow on garden sculptures or archways, creating living art installations.
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 varieties often symbolize intellectual prowess due to their climbing nature, which is thought to represent one's ability to climb to new heights of understanding or creativity.
- Mystery and Elegance: The deep, rich colors of the 'Black Prince' can signify mystery and sophistication, making it a symbol for those who appreciate the refined and perhaps the mysterious side of life.
- Artistic Inspiration: As a plant that is often found adorning walls and trellises, Clematis can represent beauty and inspiration that support creativity and artistic endeavors.
- New Beginnings: Since many Clematis species are among the first to bloom in spring, they can symbolize hope and the beginning of new projects or phases in life.
WaterThe Clematis, commonly known as the Queen of the Vines, requires consistent moisture to thrive, especially when grown in containers. Water the plant deeply once a week, applying about 1 gallon of water to ensure the soil is thoroughly moistened. During hot or dry spells, increase watering frequency to twice a week, while in cooler or rainy periods, reduce the frequency. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf diseases and ensure the base of the plant remains well hydrated. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water again.
LightQueen of the Vines flourishes best in a location with full sun to part shade, which equates to about 6 hours of sunlight a day. The ideal spot for the Clematis would be one where its base and roots are shaded, perhaps by low plantings or mulch, but the vines themselves can climb towards the sun. Avoiding deep shade areas will promote better blooms and plant vigor.
TemperatureQueen of the Vines prefers temperate climates, thriving best when daytime temperatures range between 65°F and 75°F. It can withstand winter temperatures down to about 20°F but should be protected from harsh, cold winds. In extended temperatures over 85°F, the plant may require additional shade or water to prevent stress. The Clematis is versatile and resilient, adapting to a wide spectrum of temperature conditions when properly cared for.
PruningQueen of the Vines benefits from pruning to promote healthy growth and flowering. Prune Clematis in late winter or early spring before active growth begins, removing any dead or weak stems. This plant flowers on current year's growth, so it is safe to cut it back to about 12 inches above ground level every year. Pruning helps stimulate vigorous new growth and will enhance the number of blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis, commonly known as 'Black Prince', thrives best in a well-draining, rich, loamy soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. A good soil mix can be made with equal parts of garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage. Additionally, incorporating organic matter like well-rotted manure will enrich the soil and support healthy growth.
RepottingClematis 'Black Prince' should generally be repotted every two to three years to replenish the soil and provide space for roots to grow. When repotting, take care to disturb the roots as little as possible as clematis has a delicate root system and select a pot only one size larger than the previous.
Humidity & MistingClematis 'Black Prince' prefers a garden environment with average humidity levels. It does not require exceptionally high humidity; typical outdoor ambient humidity suffices for healthy growth as long as the soil moisture is maintained consistently.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light, cool temperatures, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, partial sun, and provide a sturdy support.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Black Prince', commonly known as Clematis, starts its life as a seed which, once sown, germinates to form a seedling. The seedling grows into a young plant, developing a root system and foliage as it becomes established. As it matures, this climbing perennial produces long, woody vines and leaf stalks that wrap around support structures. In spring and early summer, the Clematis 'Black Prince' blossoms with velvety dark purple flowers that display prominent stamens, attracting pollinators to the garden. After flowering, the plant develops feathery seed heads that can be left for visual interest or pruned to encourage new growth. The plant then goes dormant in winter, though the roots and vines remain alive, and it starts its growth cycle anew when the temperatures rise in the subsequent spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Clematis 'Black Prince', commonly known as Clematis, can be propagated most successfully through layering in late winter or early spring. This method involves selecting a long, flexible stem and gently bending it to the ground. A small portion of the stem should be wounded by making a small cut on the lower side, then buried in a shallow hole approximately 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) deep while still attached to the parent plant. This section can be held in place with a u-shaped pin or a heavy stone. The wounded part of the stem will develop roots over a period of a few months, after which it can be severed from the parent and planted as a separate entity.
