Clematis Clematis 'Ovation' (PBR) (Fo)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Ovation' (PBR) (Fo) is a flowering plant known for its striking appearance. It showcases an abundance of large, showy flowers that can make quite an impact in a garden display. The flowers bloom profusely and are characterized by their multi-petaled form, offering a lush, full look. Often the petals are overlapped, providing a dense and rich floral presentation. The color of the blooms varies, presenting in shades that can range from deep purples to vibrant pinks or sometimes even crisp whites. The center of each flower is often adorned with a contrasting tuft of stamen filaments, which stand out against the petals and add to the visual interest of the blossoms. The foliage of Clematis 'Ovation' is another attractive feature, with leaves that are typically lush and green, creating a beautiful backdrop for the flowers. This foliage is often divided into leaflets that have a slightly leathery texture, adding to the plant's overall robust appearance. The leaves may cling to supporting structures, allowing the plant to climb and showcase its flowers at varying heights within a garden. Clematis 'Ovation' is a climber and is often seen ascending trellises, arbors, or other supports. This habit makes it a favored choice for vertical interest in a garden, as it can elegantly cover structures with both its attractive foliage and stunning floral display. As a garden plant, it is versatile and can be incorporated into various garden designs, from cottage-style gardens to more formal settings where its ornate flowers can stand out as focal points. Overall, Clematis 'Ovation' is a cherished plant for its eye-catching flowers and climbing habit, contributing a vertical dimension of beauty that complements a plethora of garden designs.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Ovation Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Ovation' (PBR) (Fo)
- Toxicity
To humans
Clematis, including the variety 'Ovation', can be toxic if ingested. Its toxicity is due to irritating glycosides and protoanemonin, which can cause mouth irritation, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, symptoms may progress to salivation, convulsions, or even paralysis. Skin contact with the sap may cause dermatitis in some individuals.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, Clematis, and specifically the 'Ovation' variety, is also toxic to pets. Consumption of the plant can lead to symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and possible mouth sores due to irritation. In severe cases, ingestion could result in weakness, seizures, or even coma due to the irritant glycosides and protoanemonin it contains. Contact with the plant sap may cause skin irritation or dermatitis in pets.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Garden origin
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Appeal: Clematis 'Ovation' is prized for its beautiful large flowers, which add ornamental value to gardens and landscapes.
- Climbing Habit: As a climbing vine, it can be used to cover walls, trellises, and fences, providing a vertical element in garden design.
- Seasonal Interest: Producing flowers from late spring to early summer, it contributes to the garden's seasonal dynamics.
- Attracts Pollinators: The plant's blossoms can attract butterflies and bees, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Clematis 'Ovation' typically requires minimal care beyond annual pruning and occasional watering.
- Variety in Planting: Suitable for container planting as well as in-ground, offering flexibility for gardeners with limited space.
- Durability: It is a generally hardy plant that can withstand UK climates, making it suitable for many gardens without the need for winter protection.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- As an educational tool for horticulture students and enthusiasts to study the effects of pruning techniques on vine growth and flowering patterns.
- In landscape architecture, Clematis 'Ovation' can be used to create living sculptures by training the vines to grow over frames and structures.
- For erosion control, the extensive root system of this Clematis can help stabilize soil on slopes and banks.
- In ecological gardens, it can serve as a habitat plant, offering shelter and nesting sites for birds and beneficial insects.
- As a photography subject, the Clematis 'Ovation' vibrant flowers can be used to practice macro and nature photography.
- Utilized in art, where artists can use its diverse form and color as inspiration for paintings, drawings, and other visual art pieces.
- In culinary presentations, its flowers, if confirmed edible, can add an ornamental touch when used as a garnish for dishes and desserts.
- For sensory gardens, the texture and scent of Clematis 'Ovation' can provide a tactile and olfactory experience for visitors.
- As a natural dye source, the flowers and leaves of Clematis 'Ovation', upon proper research, could be used to color fabrics or artistic materials.
- In the crafting of fragrances or potpourris, the blooms of the Clematis 'Ovation' can contribute to a unique blend of natural scents.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Ingenuity and Artistic Inspiration: Clematis 'Ovation' is linked to creativity due to its large, impressive flowers which are often seen as an artistic display in nature.
- Mental Beauty: The clematis plant is associated with the beauty of the mind and spirit, reflecting the thoughtful and intellectual achievements one can attain.
- Resilience: Given its climbing nature and ability to adapt to various conditions, clematis symbolizes resilience and the ability to persevere through challenges.
- Water
The Clematis, commonly referred to as the Clematis 'Ovation', requires consistent moisture, especially during the flowering and growing seasons. It should be watered deeply once a week, but this may vary depending on climate conditions—more frequent watering may be necessary during particularly hot or dry periods. Aim to apply approximately one gallon of water to ensure it reaches the deep roots, avoiding overhead watering to prevent diseases. During the winter, reduce watering but do not let the plant dry out completely.
- Light
Clematis 'Ovation' flourishes best in a location that receives full sun to part shade. The ideal spot for this plant would be one where its base and roots are shaded while the upper parts of the plant, especially the flowering vines, are exposed to sunlight. An ideal scenario could be planting it at the base of a shrub or with a low groundcover to protect its roots from the heat while allowing the vines to climb into the sunshine.
- Temperature
The Clematis 'Ovation' is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperature conditions. It can survive temperatures down to around -20 degrees Fahrenheit and thrive in temperatures that are typically found in temperate regions. For optimal growth and flowering, maintain a climate where temperatures hover between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Pruning
Pruning is essential for the Clematis 'Ovation' to encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, cutting back the previous year's growth to a strong set of buds about 1-2 feet above the ground. This helps to maintain the plant's shape, prevent overcrowding, and enhance the size and quality of its blooms.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Clematis 'Ovation', also known as Clematis, thrives best in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.5. A soil mixture containing compost, organic matter, and perlite or vermiculite will enhance drainage and provide the necessary nutrients. Mulching around the plant base can help maintain soil moisture levels.
- Repotting
Clematis 'Ovation' generally does not need to be repotted often as it is normally grown outdoors. If grown in containers, they may need repotting every 2-3 years to prevent root-binding and renew soil nutrients.
- Humidity & Misting
Clematis 'Ovation' prefers a moderate humidity environment but is quite adaptable to different humidity levels typical of outdoor conditions where these plants are usually grown.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light; ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial sun, shelter from strong winds, support climb.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
- Life cycle
Clematis 'Ovation' (PBR) (Fo), also known as Clematis 'Ovation', begins its life cycle with seed germination, after which the seedling gradually develops a root system and foliage. As a perennial vine, it enters a vegetative growth stage, where stems elongate and leaves expand, leading to the development of buds. These buds blossom into large, prominent flowers, typically in late spring or early summer, which is the plant's reproductive phase. After pollination, flowers produce seeds, which when dispersed, can lead to new plants if conditions are favorable. In colder climates, Clematis 'Ovation' undergoes a period of dormancy during the winter months, where above-ground growth dies back and the plant survives through its root system. With the return of warm temperatures in spring, the cycle repeats as new growth emerges from the plant's base or its surviving stems.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Clematis 'Ovation', a popular climbing plant known for its lovely flowers, can be propagated through several methods, but the most popular is through softwood cuttings. This is typically done in late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is just beginning to mature, and the stems are soft and pliable. To propagate by cutting, you should choose a healthy piece of the vine about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, making sure it has at least two sets of leaves. Cut just below a leaf node, as this is where rooting hormone can be applied to encourage new root growth. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that at least one leaf node is buried to foster root development. The cuttings need ample humidity, so covering them with a plastic bag or placing them in a propagator can create a favorable environment for root growth. In a few weeks, when the cuttings have established a good root system, they can be transplanted outdoors to a permanent location.