Clematis Columbine Clematis 'Columbine' (A)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Columbine' is a flowering vine rich in ornamental appeal. This plant exhibits a lush foliage of bright green leaves, which serve as an elegant backdrop for its flowers. The blooms are particularly striking, with their distinct, large, bell-shaped appearance that tends to nod gracefully on the vine. Each flower is composed of four to six sepals. The color of the flowers is usually a lavender or mauve, often with a slight gradient providing a sense of depth and texture. Sometimes the sepals may have a faint pink or reddish hue along the edges or midribs, and they can exhibit a shimmering sheen when they catch the light. Prominently displayed within the center of each flower are the stamens, which are lighter in color, often cream or yellowish, and provide a contrasting centerpiece. The tendrils of Clematis 'Columbine' cling to support structures, allowing the plant to climb and showcase its flowers at eye level or higher, depending on how it is trained or supported. In addition to its striking flowers, the plant also produces fluffy seed heads after the blooming period, which add further interest. The overall impression of Clematis 'Columbine' is one of drama and elegance, providing a charming display throughout its blooming season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Clematis, Columbine Clematis, Leather Flower.
Common names
Clematis 'Columbine'
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including the 'Columbine' cultivar, contains toxic compounds that can be harmful if ingested. The plant mainly contains irritating glycosides which, when ingested, can lead to severe mouth pain and ulcers. Symptoms of poisoning from clematis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. In severe cases, it can also cause internal bleeding, nervous system issues, or organ damage. Any part of the plant, including the leaves, flowers, and stems, can cause these symptoms, so it is crucial to avoid ingesting any part of the clematis plant.
To pets
Clematis is also toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The plant contains irritant glycosides which can cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested by pets. In severe cases, clematis ingestion can lead to trembling, seizures, or even death. All parts of the clematis plant, including leaves, stems, and flowers, should be considered dangerous if ingested by pets. It is essential to prevent access to these plants to ensure the safety of pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Clematis Columbine is known for its beautiful flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility: It can be planted in a variety of settings such as trellises, walls, arbors, or pergolas to add vertical interest to gardens.
- Attracts Wildlife: The plant can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides color and interest during its blooming season, contributing to the seasonal dynamics of the garden.
- Easy to Grow: Clematis Columbine is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Privacy: When grown on structures, it can provide privacy as it forms a dense screen of foliage and flowers.
- Compatible with Other Plants: Works well when planted with other garden plants, providing a complementary backdrop or contrast.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis vines can be trained to grow on objects for thematic garden art, such as creating the illusion of a flowing river by allowing it to cascade over blue-painted rocks.
- The Clematis 'Columbine' can provide privacy when grown along fences or trellises, effectively creating a green screen in an outdoor living space.
- Florists may use dried Clematis vines in wreaths or as a rustic framework for floral arrangements due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Long Clematis vines can be woven into decorative garden structures like arbors or pergolas for a whimsical touch.
- Fibers from the Clematis 'Columbine' stem have been historically used to make plant-based twine or rope for various crafting projects.
- Clematis blossoms can infuse water with a subtle fragrance; floating the flowers in a bowl can provide a decorative element for garden parties.
- Insect photographers may use Clematis 'Columbine' as a backdrop for macro photography due to its intricate flower shapes and vibrant colors.
- Gardeners might plant Clematis 'Columbine' near vegetable gardens as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects for pollination.
- The vine's ability to quickly cover trellises can be used for themed activities such as creating an outdoor "secret garden" play area for children.
- Artisans may use the pattern of the Clematis 'Columbine' vine growth as inspiration for designs in jewelry or metalwork, mimicking its natural intertwining form.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Ingenuity and Cleverness: Clematis plants can climb and wind through other plants and structures, which reflects an ability to navigate complex environments smartly.
- Mental Beauty: Due to its intricate and delicate flowers, it symbolizes the attractiveness of thoughts and intellect rather than just physical appearance.
- Foresight: The clematis’s growth habit, reaching upwards and outwards, suggests forward thinking and planning for the future.
- Aspiration and Achievements: The way clematis vines reach upward toward the sky represents one's journey to reach higher goals and aspirations.
WaterClematis, commonly known as the Columbine Clematis, should be watered deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Once established, watering should be adjusted to maintain a consistently moist but not soggy soil; this usually means about one inch of water per week, whether from rainfall or irrigation. During hot or dry periods, you may need to water twice per week. Ensure you avoid wetting the foliage to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Typically, for an established plant, watering with about one to two gallons per week should be sufficient, depending on your soil type and climate.
LightColumbine Clematis thrives best in a location where it can receive full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot would be one where the roots are shaded, either by low plants or a mulch layer, but where the vines can grow into the sunlight. This light condition promotes the most vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for Columbine Clematis is between 55°F and 70°F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F in winter and can survive brief periods of heat up to 90°F in the summer. Clematis prefer a cooler root zone, so providing some shade at the base of the plant is beneficial to keep the root temperature lower.
PruningPrune Columbine Clematis to encourage vigorous growth and flowering. This variety flowers on new growth, so pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before active growth starts. Cutting back the plant to about a foot off the ground will help stimulate new shoots. Prune dead or weak stems anytime during the growing season to maintain plant health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Clematis Columbine prefers a well-draining soil mix with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. It thrives in a soil pH of around 6.5 to 7.5. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and perlite or grit for drainage makes an ideal soil composition for this clematis.
RepottingThe Clematis Columbine should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or as needed. Young plants will benefit from more frequent repotting, while mature plants can be repotted less often. Ensure the new pot is larger and has good drainage.
Humidity & MistingThe Clematis Columbine prefers a moderate humidity level but is quite adaptable to different humidity conditions. It thrives outdoors where natural humidity is present but does not require any special humidity considerations when planted in the ground.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Clematis Columbine in a bright spot with support for vines.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, partial to full sun, provide climbing support.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Columbine', commonly known as Columbine Clematis, begins its life as a seed, which when sown, germinates into a small seedling under the right conditions of warmth, light, and moisture. The seedling grows into a juvenile plant, developing its root system and foliage, and sometimes may take several years before it matures enough to flower. The mature plant then produces distinctive, large, nodding flowers usually in shades of lavender or blue during spring or summer, attracting pollinators to its blossoms. After pollination, the flowers develop into fluffy seed heads, which contain seeds that can be dispersed by wind to propagate new plants. The plant typically dies back to the ground in winter, being a herbaceous perennial, but regrows the following spring from the root system. The cycle continues yearly with the plant increasing in size and vigor, potentially living for several years if maintained in suitable growing conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: To propagate the Clematis 'Columbine', also known as the Clematis, the most popular method is by taking semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in early summer when the plant's new growth has begun to mature and harden slightly. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long with at least two sets of leaves. It's important to make a clean cut just below a leaf node, as this is where the roots will form. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining rooting medium. The cutting should then be placed in a warm, humid environment to encourage root growth, which usually takes several weeks. Consistent moisture is essential, and the new Clematis plants will be ready to transplant the following spring.
