Clematis Chevalier Clematis Chevalier = 'Evipo040' (PBR) (EL)
ABOUT
The Clematis Chevalier, known for its striking floral display, is a sight to behold when in full bloom. Its charming flowers are the centerpiece of its visual appeal, typically presenting a deep, velvety purple hue which can almost appear blue in certain lights. The plethora of petals that make up each bloom, ranging from six to eight in number, radiate around a central tuft of filamentous stamens, colored with contrasting golden yellow anthers. This alluring contrast makes the flowers exceptionally eye-catching. The leaves of the Clematis Cheivalier provide an elegant backdrop to the sumptuous blooms. They are medium green, compound, and often consist of multiple leaflets in a group, which together create a lush and full appearance. The foliage texture is somewhat smooth, contributing to the plant's overall graceful aesthetic. This particular Clematis cultivar displays a climbing habit, wrapping its tendrils around supporting structures as it grows. The way it drapes itself can add a vertical dimension of beauty to gardens, with the blossoms decorating the supporting structure like natural ornaments. The plant's seasonal performance includes a flourish of flowering activity primarily in the early summers to early autumns. It is during these times that Clematis Chevalier puts on its most splendid show, inviting admirers to relish its eye-catching flowers and delicate green framework.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Clematis Chevalier, Boulevard Chevalier, Chevalier Clematis.
Common names
Clematis 'Evipo040'
- Toxicity
To humans
Clematis, including Clematis Chevalier, is considered to be toxic if ingested. The plant contains compounds known as glycosides which can cause a mild or moderate toxicity level. Symptoms of clematis poisoning when parts of the plant are consumed may include irritation of the mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, salivation and mouth ulcers can also occur. Contact with the skin can sometimes lead to dermatitis. It is advised to avoid ingestion and to wear gloves when handling the plant to prevent skin irritation.
To pets
Clematis, including Clematis Chevalier, is toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. The plant contains irritant glycosides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling if ingested. In some cases, ingestion can also lead to ataxia (loss of coordination) and other symptoms of gastrointestinal distress. It is important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant and to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has consumed clematis.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: Clematis Chevalier offers striking flowers that enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Compact Growth: This variety is suitable for small spaces due to its relatively compact growth habit.
- Vertical Interest: Ideal for adding vertical interest to gardens by growing on trellises, walls, or fences.
- Long Blooming Period: It boasts a long flowering season, providing color and visual interest for an extended time.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it a good choice for busy gardeners.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of the local ecosystem.
- Versatility: Can be used in a variety of garden designs, from cottage gardens to formal landscapes.
- Hardiness: The plant is relatively hardy and can withstand different climatic conditions within its growing zones.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Clematis Chevalier can be trained to grow on a variety of structures, such as trellises, fences, or over arbors, creating a dynamic and textured garden feature.
- It can be used as an unexpected addition to floral arrangements, particularly in large, cascading bouquets, for its richly colored flowers and long stems.
- This plant serves as a backdrop for photographing other garden plants, offering a contrasting color and texture that highlights the featured plants.
- Clematis can be creatively trained to grow through large shrubbery, providing unexpected pops of color amongst the greenery.
- The vine can also be grown in containers on balconies or patios, where garden space is limited, adding vertical interest to small areas.
- Its vibrant flowers can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, though this is less common and more of an experimental art project.
- Landscapers may use Clematis Chevalier to create living walls that provide privacy and aesthetic appeal to outdoor spaces.
- Gardeners may also grow this clematis as a means of attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to their gardens.
- When grown densely, it can be utilized as a ground cover to help control erosion on slopes or banks.
- Some hobbyists may use the dried vine material for crafting, such as making wreaths or other decorative items.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Mental Agility: Clematis plants are often associated with intelligence and quick thinking, possibly due to their intricate and complex flower structures, suggesting a symbol of mental agility.
- Creativity and Ingenuity: With its striking flowers and ability to climb and adapt to its surroundings, the clematis symbolizes creativity and the ingenuity to find one's path.
- Artistry: The clematis is admired for its beautiful blooms and artistic appeal, symbolizing a person's appreciation for beauty and artistic expression.
- Aspiration and Determination: The climbing nature of the clematis can represent a person's aspirations and determination to rise above difficulties or challenges.
- Water
The Clematis 'Chevalier' should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. During the active growth period in spring and summer, water the plant about once a week with roughly one gallon of water, depending on weather conditions. If you experience hot or dry weather, you might need to water more frequently. In winter, reduce watering to every few weeks or when the soil feels dry to the touch several inches down. It's essential not to let the soil dry out completely, but also to avoid waterlogging which can lead to root rot.
- Light
The Clematis 'Chevalier' thrives under conditions of partial sun to full sun. The ideal spot for this plant would be one where it receives at least four to six hours of sunlight a day, with some shade during the hottest part of the day. Morning sun and afternoon shade are typically ideal to encourage vibrant blooms without causing heat stress to the plant.
- Temperature
The Clematis 'Chevalier' can tolerate a broad range of temperatures but prefers a temperate climate. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but thrives in areas where the average temperature ranges between 45 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. In very hot climates, providing shade during the peak heat of the day will help prevent stress to the plant.
- Pruning
Pruning the Clematis 'Chevalier' is crucial for maintaining health and encouraging vigorous blooms. This variety should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning consists of cutting back the previous year's stems to a strong set of buds about 12 inches above the ground. This stimulates strong new growth and ample flowering. It's also a good time to remove any dead or weak stems to maintain a healthy plant structure.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Clematis Chevalier thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The best soil mix for this clematis includes a combination of loamy garden soil, compost, and perlite or grit for improved drainage. To enhance soil fertility, incorporate a slow-release fertilizer or well-rotted manure into the mix before planting.
- Repotting
Clematis Chevalier, commonly known as clematis, should typically be repotted every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. It is best to repot in the spring before the plant begins its active growth phase.
- Humidity & Misting
Clematis Chevalier prefers outdoor conditions where the humidity is naturally regulated. The plant does well in average garden humidity levels and doesn't require specific humidity adjustments as long as it is well-watered and has good air circulation around it.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright indirect light, cool temps, and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade, mulch roots, and train on support.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The life of Clematis 'Chevalier', a perennial vine, begins with seed germination where conditions allow, though it is more commonly propagated through cuttings or layering for consistent results. Once roots establish, the plant enters a vegetative stage, producing long stems and leaves, leveraging tendrils to climb. During spring and summer, 'Chevalier' enters its flowering stage, showcasing striking blue or violet blooms that attract pollinators. After pollination, some varieties may produce small, plum-like fruits, each with seeds that can disperse for new plant colonization. As temperatures drop in autumn, the plant enters a period of dormancy, where above ground parts may die back, while the root system survives to regenerate the next spring. Throughout its life, Clematis 'Chevalier' will continue this annual cycle, producing flowers and, if conditions permit, seeds for several years.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to Summer
Clematis 'Chevalier', also known as Clematis Chevalier 'Evipo040', is commonly propagated through softwood cuttings taken in early to mid-summer. To propagate through cuttings, a gardener should select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and prepare a cutting of about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in length. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite. The pot should be kept in a humid environment with indirect light. Success is enhanced by covering with a plastic bag to conserve moisture until roots develop, which can take several weeks. After rooting is established, the new Clematis 'Chevalier' can be transplanted to a more permanent location.