Clematis Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' (EL)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' is a stunning flowering vine known for its prolific display of blooms. The flowers of this variety are particularly striking, characterized by their rich, velvety petals. Each bloom is composed of four to six petals that exude a delicate to deep blue hue or sometimes purplish-blue, with a base color that can vary slightly depending on growing conditions. The heart of each flower features striking creamy-yellow stamen, creating a beautiful contrast that draws the eye and adds depth to the floral display. The petals are broad and often have a slightly waved or ruffled margin, which lends a touch of elegance and a sense of softness to the overall appearance of the bloom. During its blooming period, Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' becomes a tapestry of color, the blossoms densely clustered along the vine. The foliage of this perennial is equally attractive, providing a lush backdrop for the floral display. The leaves are typically deep green, sometimes with a shiny surface, and they are arranged in opposing pairs along the vine's stems. Adding to its charm, the flower's texture and overlapping petal arrangement provide it with a luxuriant, full-bodied look, turning this clematis variety into a centerpiece in any garden it graces. The plant's overall presentation is both graceful and robust, with each blossom being a focal point of natural beauty. It easily attracts the attention of passersby and pollinators alike, making it a beloved choice among garden enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Lady Northcliffe Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' (EL)
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including 'Lady Northcliffe', contains toxic compounds that can cause mild to severe symptoms if ingested. The plant contains irritating glycosides that, upon contact or ingestion, can lead to symptoms such as salivation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, mouth ulcers and internal bleeding. Handling the plant can also cause skin irritation in some people. Care should be taken to avoid ingestion and to wear gloves when handling the plant to prevent skin irritation.
To pets
Clematis, which includes 'Lady Northcliffe', is toxic to pets. Similar to its effects on humans, the plant contains irritant glycosides that can cause salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth pain if ingested by animals such as cats and dogs. In severe instances, symptoms may escalate to drooling, upset stomach, and diarrhea, which could lead to dehydration and require veterinary attention. It is important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' offers striking, large lavender-blue flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility: This plant is suitable for growing on trellises, arbors, or walls, making it versatile for a variety of garden designs and structures.
- Pollinator Friendly: The blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' has a long flowering period from midsummer to early autumn, providing interest throughout the seasons.
- Screening: Capable of growing tall, this plant can provide an attractive screen or cover for unsightly areas, enhancing privacy in outdoor spaces.
- Ease of Cultivation: It is relatively easy to grow and care for, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Cold Hardiness: This cultivar is quite hardy and can withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Pruning Flexibility: Being in Pruning Group 2, it can be lightly pruned after the first flush of flowers, making it easier to manage than some other clematis varieties.
- Height Control: It can be kept at a manageable height with appropriate pruning, making it ideal for smaller gardens or limited spaces.
- Improves Structure: The plant's climbing habit can add structure and height to garden beds and borders.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis stems can be used in basket weaving. The flexible young stems of the plant can be harvested and woven into decorative or functional baskets.
- Floral arrangements often incorporate Clematis blooms. The cut flowers of 'Lady Northcliffe' Clematis can add a touch of elegance to bouquets and flower arrangements.
- The plant can be used as a natural dye source. The petals and vines of Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' can yield subtle shades of green or gray when used in the natural dyeing process for fabrics or yarns.
- Clematis can be trained to create living sculptures. With careful pruning and support, Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' can be guided into shapes or figures for artistic garden displays.
- It can be used in photography or art projects. The striking visual appeal of Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' makes it a popular subject for artists and photographers.
- Insect habitat creation utilizes Clematis. The dense foliage of the plant can provide shelter for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
- It can be a teaching tool in horticultural education. Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' can be used to demonstrate pruning techniques and vine training in gardening classes.
- As a natural fence, Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' can create privacy. When grown on trellises, it can form a green barrier that provides seclusion and aesthetic appeal.
- Clematis leaves can be used in composting. Fallen Clematis leaves can be added to compost piles to enrich the soil with organic matter.
- The plant can provide seasonal interest in landscapes. The changing appearance of Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' throughout the growing season can be used to plan garden displays with year-round interest.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Ingenuity: Clematis plants are known for their ability to adapt and climb various structures. 'Lady Northcliffe', with its climbing nature, represents the ability to find creative ways to progress and ascend.
- Mental Beauty: With its striking blue blooms, this variety of clematis is symbolic of the beauty of the mind and intellect, highlighting the importance of thoughts and intelligence.
- Artistic Inspiration: The plant's impressive flowers are suggestive of creativity and inspiration, making it a symbol for artists and those seeking a muse.
WaterClematis 'Lady Northcliffe', commonly known as the Clematis, requires consistent moisture to thrive. Water the Clematis deeply, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant once a week with about one gallon of water, adjusting frequency depending on weather conditions; more water may be needed during dry spells or less if it rains. Ensure the plant has adequate drainage to prevent root rot. In the winter, reduce watering but do not let the soil completely dry out.
LightThe Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' prefers a spot where it can enjoy partial shade to full sun. Ideally, the plant's roots and base should be in a shaded or cooler area, while the vines and flowers have access to sunlight. A location with morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight throughout the day, is perfect for healthy growth.
TemperatureClematis 'Lady Northcliffe' thrives in a temperate climate with temperatures between 50°F and 75°F for optimal growth. However, the plant is hardy and can tolerate a temperature range from the mid-20s to 90°F but may become dormant or stressed at the extremes of this range. Providing mulch around the base can help moderate temperature fluctuations.
PruningPruning is vital for Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' to promote robust growth and flowering. This clematis should be pruned in late winter or early spring, before the plant begins to actively grow. Remove dead or weak stems and cut back remaining stems to a pair of strong buds about 12 inches above the ground. Pruning encourages new growth, leading to more flowers during the blooming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe,' the best soil mix is a well-draining mixture high in organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A balance of loamy soil, peat, and perlite or sand helps ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingClematis 'Lady Northcliffe' typically does not require frequent repotting as it is a garden climber. It should only be repotted if showing signs of being root-bound or if soil quality has degraded. This is typically every few years.
Humidity & MistingClematis 'Lady Northcliffe' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable to different outdoor environments. It does not have specific humidity requirements as long as the plant is kept outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in bright indirect light with support for climbing.
Outdoor
Plant in fertile soil, full sun to part shade, provide climbing support.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' begins with seed germination, which requires a period of stratification to break dormancy. Once germinated, the seedling grows and develops into a young plant, establishing a root system and foliage. The plant matures and enters a vegetative state, during which it produces long, climbing vines and lush, green leaves. Upon reaching maturity, Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe' begins its flowering stage, producing large, showy blue-violet flowers, typically in late spring or early summer, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the plant develops seed heads which contain seeds ready for dispersal. This clematis is a perennial, which means it will enter a period of dormancy in the winter, only to regrow from the same root system the following season, repeating its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Clematis 'Lady Northcliffe', like many of its relatives in the Clematis genus, can be propagated through several methods, but the one widely practiced by gardeners is the propagation by cuttings. The ideal time to take cuttings for this clematis is in early to mid-summer, when the stems are not too tender and yet not overly woody; June typically presents the best balance in temperate climates. To propagate by cuttings, select a healthy piece of stem around 4 to 6 inches long, ensuring there are at least a couple of nodes present. The cutting should be taken just below a node, and the lower leaves are removed to reduce moisture loss. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth, then plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite or a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be kept in a shaded area and maintained slightly moist until the cutting has rooted well, which usually takes several weeks. It's important to not let the soil dry out completely but also to avoid waterlogging which can cause the cutting to rot.
