Clematis Clematis 'Marilyn' (M)
ABOUT
The Clematis 'Marilyn' is a striking climbing plant renowned for its large, showy flowers. These flowers possess an alluring charm with a pale mauve-pink hue, usually with a slightly deeper bar running along the center of each petal. The petals are broad, and their edges are gently ruffled adding to the floral display's opulence. In the heart of the bloom, a prominent tuft of creamy yellow stamens creates a stunning contrast that draws attention to the center of the flower. The foliage of the Clematis 'Marilyn' consists of lush green leaves that create a perfect canvas for the blooms to stand out. These leaves are divided into leaflets that have a soft, graceful form and provide a dense green backdrop throughout the growing season. The overall appearance of Clematis 'Marilyn' is one of elegance and beauty, with a profusion of blooms that can cover the supporting structure, be it a trellis, arbor, or fence. This plant offers a delightful visual spectacle with its cascade of flowers that are typically in their most radiant display during the blooming period.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Queen of the Vines, Traveler's Joy, Virgin's Bower, Leather Flower, Vase Vine.
Common names
Clematis 'Marilyn'
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, which includes the variety 'Marilyn', contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested, although it is generally considered to have low toxicity to humans. Symptoms of poisoning can include mouth irritation, digestive upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea, and in some cases, more severe symptoms such as salivation or convulsions if consumed in large enough quantities. Skin contact with the sap may also cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is always a good practice to avoid eating any part of ornamental plants like Clematis due to their potential toxicity.
To pets
Clematis, including the 'Marilyn' variety, is also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If pets consume parts of this plant, they can experience similar symptoms to human poisoning, such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Large ingestions might cause more serious symptoms like trembling, seizures, or even organ damage. It is advisable to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has ingested Clematis.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6-9 feet (1.8-2.7 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Varies
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Clematis Marilyn adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its vibrant flowers and lush green foliage.
- Versatility: Suitable for trellises, arbors, walls, and fences, providing versatile options for garden design.
- Attracts Wildlife: The blossoms can attract butterflies and other pollinators, enhancing biodiversity.
- Seasonal Interest: It produces flowers from late spring to early autumn, offering extended visual interest throughout the growing season.
- Privacy Screening: When grown on structures, it can provide a natural screen, offering a sense of privacy and seclusion.
- Easy to Grow: This cultivar is known for being hardy and easy to care for, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Space Saving: As a climbing plant, Clematis Marilyn can be grown vertically, saving valuable space in smaller gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis 'Marilyn' vines can be trained to grow on various structures, such as pergolas or trellises, to create natural privacy screens.
- In large containers, this Clematis can add vertical interest to balcony gardens or patios, especially when allowed to climb on small trellis inserts.
- Florists sometimes use the cut flowers of Clematis 'Marilyn' in bridal bouquets for their delicate appearance and subtle color.
- The plant can be used in thematic gardens, such as a moon garden, as its light-colored flowers stand out in lower light conditions.
- Clematis 'Marilyn' can serve as a natural backdrop for photographing other garden elements or small wildlife like birds and butterflies.
- This variety of Clematis can be incorporated into sensory gardens where its textured foliage and blossoms can be appreciated up close.
- When grown against bare walls, Clematis 'Marilyn' can help to soften the appearance of the hardscape, providing a more integrated garden environment.
- The dried seed heads of Clematis 'Marilyn' can be used in dried flower arrangements or for craft projects requiring natural elements.
- This Clematis can also play a role in educational gardens, teaching about climbing plant mechanics and the training of vines.
- In mixed shrub borders, Clematis 'Marilyn' can be used to provide differing heights and textures, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Intelligence: The Clematis flower often symbolizes mental prowess and intelligence, as they are known for their complex structure and intricate vines.
- Ingenuity: With its ability to climb and adapt to its surroundings, clematis represents ingenuity and the ability to think creatively to overcome obstacles.
- Artistic Inspiration: The beauty and variety of colors found in clematis blooms are thought to ignite artistic inspiration, making it a muse for the creatively inclined.
- Personal Growth: As the clematis climbs and reaches for the sun, it reflects the journey of personal development and the pursuit of higher knowledge.
- Spiritual Ascension: Their upward growth is also associated with spiritual ascension, striving for enlightenment and connecting with the divine.
- Perseverance: The plant's vigorous nature and ability to thrive even when cut back implies perseverance and a strong willpower, mirroring our ability to bounce back from adversity.
WaterClematis 'Marilyn', commonly known as Marilyn Clematis, should be watered regularly to maintain a consistently moist soil, especially during the growing season. Deep watering is recommended, which involves slowly watering the plant to allow moisture to reach deep into the soil; this can be done once a week, with an amount of around 1 gallon per plant. During hot or dry spells, increase the frequency to twice a week. Adjust watering during the fall and winter, so the soil does not become waterlogged. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again.
LightMarilyn Clematis thrives in conditions where it receives full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is one where the roots are shaded, but the vines and flowers can climb towards the sun, getting at least six hours of sunlight a day. An eastern or northern exposure that offers bright morning light with some shade during the hottest part of the day is optimal.
TemperatureMarilyn Clematis prefers a temperature range between 55°F to 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F, but it's best to protect the plant from frost to prevent damage. The Clematis can tolerate summer temperatures up to about 85°F, but it's important to provide afternoon shade and ample moisture to keep it cool during hotter periods.
PruningPruning Marilyn Clematis encourages vigorous growth and blooms. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing dead or weak stems and cutting remaining vines back to a set of strong buds. This Clematis falls into Pruning Group 2, which means it blooms on both last year's growth and new growth, so be careful not to remove all the previous season's vines. Annually pruning your Clematis will also help prevent tangling and promote a well-shaped plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis, including 'Marilyn', thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH, between 6.5 to 7.5, is ideal. Mix in perlite or grit to enhance drainage.
RepottingClematis 'Marilyn' should be repotted once it outgrows its current container, which for mature plants could be every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
Humidity & MistingClematis 'Marilyn' prefers outdoor conditions and generally does well with average outdoor humidity levels; it does not have specific high humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright indirect light, cool temperatures, and good airflow for indoor Clematis.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade or sun, provide support for climbing, and mulch roots.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Clematis 'Marilyn' (M), commonly known as Clematis, begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in a well-draining soil mixture under appropriate warmth and moisture levels. As seedlings establish, they enter a vegetative state, growing stems, leaves, and a strong root system, with support often needed for their climbing habit. Once mature, Clematis 'Marilyn' produces large, showy flowers, usually from late spring to early autumn, attracting pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the plant develops seed heads that release seeds for dispersal, ensuring the next generation. In preparation for winter, the Clematis 'Marilyn' enters a period of dormancy, reducing its metabolic activities and shedding leaves if it is deciduous; in some climates, it may maintain foliage if conditions are mild. Come spring, the cycle starts anew, with the plant resuming active growth and progressing towards flowering once more.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
For the Clematis 'Marilyn', which is a variety of Clematis, the most popular method of propagation is by softwood cuttings. This is typically done during late spring to early summer when new growth is green and flexible. To propagate, gardeners should cut a section of stem from a healthy Clematis 'Marilyn' plant measuring about 4 to 6 inches long (which is about 10 to 15 centimeters). The bottom pair of leaves should be removed and the cut just below a node. The stem should then be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth and planted in a mix of peat and perlite or sand. The cutting should be kept in a well-lit area but out of direct sunlight and maintained in high humidity, often by covering with a plastic bag or container to retain moisture. Roots typically establish within a few weeks, after which the new Clematis can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions.
