Clematis Clematis 'Dutch Sky' (LL)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Dutch Sky' is a decorative flowering plant that is well-known for its stunning floral displays. It features an abundance of large, star-shaped flowers that often have a delicate pastel blue hue, giving the appearance of a soft blue sky. Each of these flowers is composed of six to eight petal-like segments that are slightly rounded at the edges and may exhibit a faintly ruffled look, adding to the plant's ornate charm. The center of the Clematis 'Dutch Sky' flower is distinctive, with a tuft of stamen-like structures that are creamy-white or yellow in color, creating a striking contrast against the blue petals. These stamens are prominent and form an eye-catching central boss. Foliage on the Clematis 'Dutch Sky' is typically dense and lush, with leaves that are bright green and often have a glossy sheen to them. The leaves are compound, with leaflets radiating from a central point, and they provide a beautiful backdrop for the blossoms. The overall aesthetic of Clematis 'Dutch Sky' is one of grace and elegance, with its long stems twining and climbing, supporting the weight of the flowers. When in full bloom, the plant creates a cascade of blue that can be a centerpiece in any garden display. Its blooms are often described as inviting and romantic, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardening.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Leather Flower, Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Dutch Sky' (LL)
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including the Clematis 'Dutch Sky', is known to be mildly toxic to humans when ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause irritant effects on the skin and mucous membranes. If any part of the clematis is eaten, it can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. In some cases, there might also be a reaction that includes mouth ulcers and throat irritation. It is crucial to seek medical attention if any parts of the plant are consumed to ensure proper care and treatment.
To pets
Clematis, including the Clematis 'Dutch Sky', is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The plant contains irritant glycosides that can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. In some instances, affected pets may also show signs of oral pain, such as pawing at their mouths or signs of oral irritation. Ingesting large amounts of the plant can potentially lead to more severe symptoms, including a decrease in heart rate and coordination issues, although this is less common. If you suspect your pet has consumed any part of a clematis plant, it is important to contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service immediately for guidance on treatment.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Clematis 'Dutch Sky' features attractive blue or violet flowers that add beauty and color to gardens and landscapes.
- Vertical Interest: It can climb up trellises, walls, and other structures, providing vertical interest in garden designs.
- Seasonal Blooming: It typically flowers in late spring to early summer, offering seasonal charm when many other plants are just beginning to grow.
- Wildlife Attraction: The blossoms can attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees, which are beneficial for the ecosystem.
- Screening Properties: When grown on trellises or fences, Clematis 'Dutch Sky' can act as a privacy screen or windbreak.
- Versatility in Landscaping: This plant can be used in a variety of landscaping designs, including cottage gardens, formal gardens, and as border plants.
- Easy Pruning: Group 3 clematis like 'Dutch Sky' are relatively easy to prune, as they flower on current year's growth and can be cut back hard in early spring.
- Hardiness: Clematis 'Dutch Sky' is generally hardy and can tolerate a range of climates, thriving in USDA zones 4 through 9.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis 'Dutch Sky' can be trained to climb over unsightly structures, giving them a natural façade and integrating them into the landscape more harmoniously.
- Can be used as a "living curtain" on pergolas or patios to provide shade and create an outdoor room feeling with its dense foliage.
- When planted in large containers, clematis serves as a mobile piece of garden art that can be moved to different locations for thematic or seasonal changes.
- This plant can be used in cut flower arrangements, adding a unique, trailing element to bouquets with its vines and blooms.
- It can function as a natural privacy screen when grown on balcony railings or trellises in urban gardens.
- Clematis can be utilized as part of a living roof installation, where it contributes to insulation and biodiversity on building rooftops.
- Due to its climbing nature, it can be employed in artistic installations, allowing for the creation of green sculptures in partnership with other structural elements.
- The flowers of the Clematis 'Dutch Sky' can be used for natural dyeing, producing a range of colors depending on the mordants used in the process.
- It can be included in educational gardens to teach pruning techniques, as clematis requires different pruning depending on the flowering group it belongs to.
- When grown along fences, clematis can help dampen street noise, creating a quieter and more peaceful garden environment.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis flower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis flower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Ingenuity: The climbing nature of clematis represents the ability to rise above obstacles and reach for higher goals or states of being.
- Mental Beauty: With its striking flowers, clematis is often associated with the concept of an attractive mind or the beauty of thoughts and ideas.
- Artistic Inspiration: The vibrant colors and dramatic presence of the clematis can symbolize creativity and the inspiration necessary for artistic endeavors.
- Spiritual Quest: Due to its upward growth, it may also represent a spiritual journey or the quest for higher knowledge.
WaterFor the Clematis 'Dutch Sky', also commonly known as the Dutch Sky Clematis, it's essential to maintain a consistent watering schedule, especially during the growing season. It should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water each time to thoroughly moisten the root zone. In hot or dry weather, you may need to water twice a week to keep the soil from drying out completely. During dormant periods in winter, reduce watering but do not allow the soil to become bone dry. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
LightThe Dutch Sky Clematis thrives best in a spot that offers full sun to partial shade. It is important to plant it in a location where it receives at least six hours of sunlight a day, but some afternoon shade can protect it from the intense heat of midday sun. This balance encourages vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
TemperatureThe Dutch Sky Clematis prefers temperate climates with temperatures ranging between 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but it's important to ensure the root area is mulched to provide protection from freezing. The ideal temperature range for this clematis cultivar promotes the most vigorous flowering.
PruningPruning the Dutch Sky Clematis is crucial for encouraging strong growth and flowering. This plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Since it is a Group 2 clematis, lightly prune just to remove dead or weak stems, ensuring not to cut back healthy stems that will produce the current year's flowers. Prune again after the first flush of flowers in early summer to encourage a second bloom period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Clematis is well-draining, fertile loam with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure, and consider adding perlite or sand to enhance drainage. Ensure the top layer of the soil is loose to allow the roots to penetrate easily.
RepottingClematis typically does not need frequent repotting; repotting every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container is sufficient. It's best done in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingClematis plants prefer a moderate humidity level but are quite adaptable and can thrive in the humidity conditions found in most outdoor garden environments. Indoor specimens may need additional humidity if the air is very dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep in cool room.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade or sun with shelter from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Dutch Sky', also commonly known as Clematis, begins its life as a seed or more commonly from a cutting, which when properly planted and cared for, will germinate and develop a strong root system. The plant then enters a vegetative stage where it produces stems and leaves, vigorously growing vertically with the support of a trellis or other structure. Following the vegetative phase, the Clematis 'Dutch Sky' enters its flowering stage in late spring or early summer, displaying its characteristic blue to mauve flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers will develop into fruits known as achenes, each with a feathery tail that aids in wind dispersal. The plant eventually goes dormant in the winter, conserving energy underground while the aerial parts may die back, especially in colder climates. With the return of warmer temperatures in spring, the Clematis 'Dutch Sky' will resume growth from the buds on its woody stems, thus beginning its cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The Clematis 'Dutch Sky', also known as a type of Leather Flower, is best propagated in the springtime when it is emerging from dormancy and the temperatures are consistently above freezing. The most popular method of propagation for this perennial vine is through layering. This involves bending a stem to the ground gently and then covering part of it with soil while it is still attached to the parent plant. The buried section should be lightly wounded or nicked and then secured with a U-shaped pin to ensure contact with the soil, allowing roots to develop from the injured area. Keep the soil moist throughout the rooting period. Once a good amount of roots has established, which might take a few months, the new plant can be severed from the parent and transplanted to its desired location. Layering mimics the natural way Clematis spread in the wild and is favored for not requiring complex tools or techniques.
