Clematis Clematis 'Foxy' (A)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Foxy' is known for its striking flowers that adorn the plant throughout its blooming season. The flowers of this Clematis variety are typically large and star-shaped, boasting an array of petals that fan out from a central point. The petals have a velvety texture and are often a rich, vibrant shade that can range from deep purples to lighter pinks or even a creamy white. In the center of each flower, there is usually a contrasting tuft of stamens that stand out against the colorful petals. The leaves of Clematis 'Foxy' are usually bright green, providing a lush backdrop for the showy flowers. They are often compound leaves, consisting of multiple leaflets, which may be smooth or slightly toothed at the edges. The foliage tends to climb and intertwine with supports, showcasing the plant's climbing habit. The vines of the Clematis 'Foxy' are slender and flexible, allowing the plant to be trained to climb trellises, fences, or other structures in the garden, creating a vertical element of beauty. The plant tends to have a woody base with the younger growth above it being more green and supple, facilitating both its growth habit and its support-seeking behavior. As the Clematis 'Foxy' matures, it can become a focal point in the garden due to its floral display, which is often abundant and long-lasting. The flowers are known for their ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding another layer of dynamism to their appeal. Overall, Clematis 'Foxy' has a captivating presence in any landscape, creating bursts of color with its delightful blossoms and a sense of vitality with its climbing nature. It's a beloved addition to many gardens due to its decorative flowers and the elegance it lends to any space it occupies.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Foxy Clematis, Clematis 'Foxy'
Common names
Clematis 'Foxy'.
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis plants are known to be toxic to humans if ingested. The Clematis contains compounds known as glycosides which can cause poisoning. Symptoms of Clematis poisoning may include irritation of the mouth, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, ingestion can also lead to the development of a burning sensation in the mouth, ulcerations of the mouth or stomach, and salivation. Contact with the sap of the plant may cause skin irritations or dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is important to handle this plant with care and ensure that it is not ingested to avoid these adverse health effects.
To pets
Clematis plants are also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Similar to humans, the toxins present in the plant can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some instances, ingesting Clematis may also result in ataxia (loss of coordination) and trembling or seizures if the consumed amount is large. It is critical to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting any part of the Clematis plant to avoid these toxic reactions. If you suspect your pet has ingested Clematis, it is advised to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Varies
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Clematis 'Foxy' offers vibrant flowers that enhance the aesthetic value of gardens and landscapes.
- Vertical Interest: It can climb up trellises, walls, and fences, adding height and dimension to garden spaces.
- Seasonal Color: It blooms in a season when many other plants may not, providing color and visual interest.
- Wildlife Attraction: Its flowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Varied Planting Options: Suitable for planting in containers or in the ground, making it versatile for different garden designs.
- Screening: It can be used to provide privacy or to hide unsightly areas of a garden when trained on supports.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care beyond occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote flowering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis 'Foxy' can be used in mixed media art projects, as its colorful flowers add a unique element when pressed and applied to canvases or paper.
- The vine's complex structure allows it to be studied for its climbing mechanisms, which can inspire innovations in robotics and material engineering.
- When dried, the flowers and leaves of this clematis can be used in potpourri blends, providing a sweet fragrance to indoor spaces.
- The long stems of the plant can be used as natural weaving materials for small decorative baskets or as an organic component in homemade wreaths.
- Its vibrant flowers make it a popular subject for photographers and painters who seek to capture the beauty of nature in their works.
- The vigorous growth habit of clematis Foxy makes it an ideal living screen on pergolas for added privacy in gardens or on patios.
- As part of an educational garden, the plant can be used to demonstrate the concept of companion planting as it coexists well with a variety of other plants.
- A live clematis 'Foxy' can be used in butterfly gardens to attract and support pollinators, thereby contributing to local biodiversity.
- The structure of the plant is sometimes used in outdoor survival workshops to teach natural methods of cordage and tying material, as the vines are strong and flexible.
- Hobbyists can use the spent blooms of the clematis for creating natural dyes which can tint textiles and craft materials with subtle shades.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiClematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityClematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Intelligence: The clematis is often associated with intelligence due to its complex and intricate flowers.
- Mental Beauty: With its attractive blooms, the clematis represents the beauty of thoughts, suggesting a person's mind can be just as attractive as physical appearance.
- Artifice: Sometimes, the clematis is a symbol for artifice or strategic behavior, perhaps due to the way some species cleverly climb and support themselves.
- Creativity: The diversity of the clematis blooms signifies creativity, inspiring one to think outside the box.
WaterThe Clematis 'Foxy', commonly known as Queen of the Vines, should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is thoroughly moistened. During hot and dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week, providing about 1 gallon of water each time for established plants. Always aim to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. In cooler weather or if the plant is in a shade, reduce the amount of water to match the slower rate of evaporation. It's important to check the top inch of soil before watering; if it's dry, it's time to water again.
LightThe Queen of the Vines thrives in spaces that receive full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would be one where the plant gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily but is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. East or west-facing locations are typically best, providing a balance of sunlight and shade throughout the day.
TemperatureQueen of the Vines prefers to grow in temperatures that range from 50°F to 75°F for optimal growth and blooming. They can survive temperatures briefly dipping down to about 20°F but severe cold can damage or kill the plant. Ensure that the plant is sheltered from cold, drying winds and consider mulching in fall to protect the roots in zones with harsh winters.
PruningPrune the Queen of the Vines to promote vigorous growth and improve air circulation, which helps prevent diseases. Prune lightly in early spring by removing any dead or weak stems. For type 2 clematis like 'Foxy', a more substantial pruning may be needed to shape the plant and encourage a flush of new blooms. The best time for heavy pruning is late winter or early spring, before the plant starts to leaf out.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis 'Foxy', commonly known as Garden Clematis, thrives in well-draining, fertile, and loamy soil with a pH that is neutral to slightly alkaline, around 7.0. The best soil mix can be created by incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. Mulch should also be added to keep the roots cool and moist.
RepottingGarden Clematis typically does not require frequent repotting and does well when left undisturbed. However, if the plant outgrows its pot or the soil becomes exhausted, repotting every few years in early spring is beneficial just before active growth begins.
Humidity & MistingGarden Clematis favors outdoor conditions with average garden humidity levels. It does not have specific humidity requirements, making it adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions found in typical garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, no direct sun, and cool roots for indoor Garden Clematis.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, shade roots, support climbing, and prune as needed.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Clematis 'Foxy', commonly known as Clematis, begins with seed germination, where warmth and moisture encourage the seed to sprout and form a small root system and shoots. The seedling stage involves the development of true leaves and photosynthesis commences as the plant establishes itself. As it enters the vegetative stage, the Clematis 'Foxy' grows rapidly, producing long, climbing stems with leaves, and requires a support structure to thrive. Upon maturity, the flowering stage occurs typically in late spring to early summer, with the plant producing an abundance of star-shaped flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the Clematis 'Foxy' sets fruit, which are fluffy, plumed structures containing seeds that can be dispersed by wind or animals to start a new generation. Finally, as temperatures drop in the autumn, the plant enters a period of dormancy where growth slows or pauses until the following spring, repeating the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Clematis 'Foxy', also known as simply a Clematis, is through softwood cuttings. This technique typically takes place in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is soft and pliable. Gardeners will select a healthy stem of the season's new growth, cut a section that is about 4 to 6 inches long (or approximately 10 to 15 centimeters), making sure to include at least two sets of leaf nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in well-draining soil, kept moist, and placed in indirect light until roots have developed and new growth indicates the cutting has successfully taken root.
