Italian Clematis Clematis viticella 'Mikelite' (Vt)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Mikelite' is a cultivar of the much-loved perennial vine known for its attractive floral display. The plant is adorned with a profusion of blooms that showcase a striking deep velvet-purple hue, giving it a regal presence in the garden. These flowers are usually of a medium size and feature a classic clematis shape, with each individual bloom composed of four to six broad and overlapping petals that taper to a point at their tips, creating a pleasingly star-like form. As the plant matures over the season, its blossoms often lighten slightly in color, presenting a subtle and delicate variation that adds to its charm. Additionally, the centers of the flowers are highlighted by a prominent tuft of creamy yellow stamens, which stand out against the dark petal backdrop, offering a delightful contrast and serving as an alluring beacon to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The foliage of Clematis 'Mikelite' is equally pleasing, with leaves that are generally dark green in color and have a glossy finish. Each leaf is composed of three leaflets which may have edges that are somewhat toothed, adding a touch of texture to the plant's overall appearance. These leaves provide a lush backdrop that helps the dazzling blooms stand out even more. Throughout its blooming period, Clematis 'Mikelite' will produce a generous display of flowers, which, if properly cared for, will continually refresh and ensure that the vine remains a centerpiece of visual interest. Additionally, as with many clematis cultivars, this plant may offer more than one flush of blooms in a growing season, extending the spectacle and providing gardeners with a long-lasting floral show.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Italian Clematis, Virgin's Bower.
Common names
Clematis viticella 'Mikelite' (Vt).
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, which includes the Clematis viticella 'Mikelite', may contain toxic compounds that can cause mild poisoning if ingested. These plants can produce irritant glycosides, which might lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. In some cases, contact with their sap can also cause skin irritation or dermatitis. Due to its potential irritants, care should be taken to avoid ingesting any part of the Clematis plant or handling it without gloves, especially if you have sensitive skin.
To pets
Clematis, including the variety Clematis viticella 'Mikelite', is considered toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. If ingested, it may cause salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some instances, excessive drooling or oral irritation might occur due to the presence of irritant glycosides in the plant. These compounds can lead to gastrointestinal upset and possible skin irritation if your pet comes into contact with the sap. Owners should ensure that pets do not have access to chew or ingest any part of a Clematis plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Spread
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Clematis viticella 'Mikelite' is known for its attractive flowers, which add aesthetic beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care besides occasional pruning and watering, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Climbing Ability: As a vigorous climber, it can cover fences, arbors, trellises, and walls, allowing for creative garden designs and use of vertical space.
- Long Flowering Season: It has a lengthy blooming period from mid-summer to early autumn, providing color in the garden for an extended period.
- Cold Hardy: This clematis is resilient to cold climates and can tolerate winter temperatures, making it suitable for cultivation in many regions.
- Attracts Pollinators: The visually appealing flowers attract bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity and aiding in the pollination of other plants.
- Variety of Uses: It can be used in container gardening, as a ground cover, or trained over structures, giving gardeners various landscaping options.
- Disease Resistance: This variety is known for having good resistance to clematis wilt and other common plant diseases.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis fibers can be used in crafting and weaving; the flexible stems of the Clematis viticella can be incorporated into small weaving projects or used to create natural garden ties.
- The plant's climbing nature can be utilized in creating living curtains or green screens on balconies or patios, providing privacy and a cool, leafy aesthetic.
- Clematis can be trained to grow over unsightly structures, such as old fences or sheds, thereby beautifying otherwise unattractive areas.
- Photographers might use the stunning flowers of the Clematis viticella as natural backdrops for portrait photography due to their deep color and lush appearance.
- The vibrant flowers can serve as a colorful muse for artists, painters, and textile designers looking to capture the essence of summer in their work.
- Garden educators and parents can use the plant's growth cycle to teach children about climbing plants and how they use structures and other plants for support.
- Landscape designers may use the Clematis viticella to create intentional wildlife habitats, as its dense foliage offers shelter and its flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- With proper supervision, clematis branches can be used in artisanal basketry classes, offering a unique material with a natural twist.
- The plant can play a role in sensory gardens, where its velvety flowers and delicate fragrance provide an experience for touch and smell.
- As part of sustainable garden practices, trimmings from Clematis viticella can be repurposed into mulch or compost, providing nutrients back to the garden while reducing waste.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mental Agility: The clematis is often associated with intelligent thought and the ability to think through complex problems, possibly due to its intricate and delicate-looking flowers.
- Artistic Inspiration: The intricate beauty of the clematis bloom is symbolic of creativity and the muses, inspiring artists and poets alike.
- Spiritual Quest: Climbing plants like clematis can symbolize a spiritual journey as they reach upwards, embodying the search for higher understanding or enlightenment.
- Ingenuity: Because the clematis can find its way to climb and flourish in various conditions, it represents cleverness and the ability to adapt creatively to challenges.
- Aspiration: With its vines climbing toward the sky, the clematis is also symbolic of aspiration and striving to achieve goals, no matter how lofty they may be.
WaterItalian Clematis requires consistent moisture, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during the drier summer months. Provide about 1 gallon of water per week during active growth periods, increasing to 1.5 gallons during especially hot or dry weeks. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. In cooler months or during periods of rainfall, reduce watering frequency but do not allow the soil to become entirely dry for extended periods.
LightItalian Clematis thrives in a spot where it can receive full sun to partial shade. It is ideal to plant it in a position where the roots are shaded, but the foliage and flowering parts can enjoy ample sunlight. Too much shade can lead to fewer blooms, while too much direct sun may stress the plant if the roots overheat. A location with morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day is optimal.
TemperatureItalian Clematis prefers moderate temperatures and can survive in a temperature range from around 35°F to 85°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, which means it can withstand winter lows down to about -30°F. However, the ideal growing temperatures for active growth and flowering are between 60°F and 75°F.
PruningItalian Clematis should be pruned to maintain plant health, encourage vigorous growth, and enhance blooming. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, cutting back the plant to about a foot above ground level. This variety of clematis blooms on new wood, so annual pruning encourages more blooms. Prune any dead or damaged stems throughout the year as needed to keep the plant tidy and healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilItalian Clematis prefers well-draining, moisture-retentive soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, compost, and well-rotted manure will create an optimal environment for root growth and health. The incorporation of compost not only enriches the soil but also improves its structure.
RepottingItalian Clematis typically does not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and address root crowding. Younger plants may need repotting more frequently, while established plants can be left longer if they are thriving.
Humidity & MistingItalian Clematis thrives in outdoor conditions where humidity is naturally regulated. It doesn't have specific humidity needs but fares well in average garden conditions. Ensuring good air circulation around the plant will help maintain healthy humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For success indoors, place Italian Clematis in bright, indirect light.
Outdoor
Plant Italian Clematis in a sunny spot with roots shaded.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis viticella 'Mikelite', commonly known as Italian Clematis, starts its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-draining soil usually in spring. Once the seedling emerges, it enters the vegetative stage, developing a woody, climbing stem with leaves. During the growing season, the plant will continue to produce new stems and foliage, and once mature, it will begin to flower. The flowering stage typically occurs in summer, when 'Mikelite' produces an abundance of violet-purple, bell-shaped flowers that are attractive to pollinators. After pollination, the plant develops seed heads, which contain the seeds that will disperse to begin a new generation. In the winter, the vine may die back, especially in cooler climates, but will re-sprout from the root system or crown in the following spring, continuing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Clematis viticella 'Mikelite' is by softwood cuttings. The best time for this is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and the new stems are long enough to take cuttings from, approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length. To propagate by cuttings, choose a healthy stem and make a cut below a pair of leaves. Remove the lower leaves to leave two or three sets of leaves at the top of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development and then place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a high humidity around the cutting by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. Roots typically form within several weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions and eventually planted out.
