Clematis Clematis 'Poldice' (Vt)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Poldice' is an ornamental vine known for its striking floral display. The plant is characterized by its large flowers that can vary in color, with some showcasing a vibrant purple or a deep velvety blue. These blooms are well-known for their impressive, rounded shape and their petals which can be broad and overlapping, creating a star-like appearance when fully opened. At the center of the flower is a prominent tuft of contrasting stamens, often a creamy yellow, adding to the plant's visual appeal. The foliage of Clematis 'Poldice' is also noteworthy, comprised of dark green leaves that have a leathery texture and a glossy surface. These leaves are typically divided into three leaflets with a slight serration on the edges, giving the vine a lush, full appearance even when it is not in bloom. The combination of the luxurious blooms and the rich greenery makes Clematis 'Poldice' a highly ornamental choice for gardens, especially when allowed to climb trellises, walls, or garden structures. Its appearance can add a dramatic flair to any garden setting, enticing garden designers to use it as a focal point.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Clematis 'Poldice', Vt Poldice.
Common names
Clematis 'Poldice' (Vt).
ToxicityTo humans
The Clematis, commonly known as the virgin's bower, contains compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains glycosides which, when ingested, can be converted into substances that irritate the mouth, stomach, and intestines. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. In some cases, consuming large amounts of the plant can lead to more severe symptoms such as internal bleeding, nervous system issues, or even organ failure. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It's important to avoid ingesting any part of the Clematis plant.
To pets
The Clematis, also known as the virgin's bower, is toxic to pets including dogs and cats. The toxicity arises from irritant glycosides found within the plant, which, upon ingestion, can cause salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea in pets. In severe cases, ingestion may lead to symptoms such as weakness, tremors, or seizures, indicating a potentially more serious condition. It is recommended to prevent pets from having access to and ingesting any part of the Clematis plant to avoid these toxic effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its striking, colorful flowers.
- Versatility: Can be trained to climb trellises, fences, and walls, or grown as ground cover.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers prolonged periods of blooms, often from late spring through early fall.
- Attracts Wildlife: Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Improves Privacy: When grown on structures, it can create natural privacy screens.
- Shade Provider: Offers shade when grown over pergolas or arbors, creating cooler areas underneath.
- Seasonal Interest: Some varieties offer interest throughout the seasons with foliage changes and seed heads.
- Diversity: Comes in a range of colors and forms, enabling gardeners to choose the perfect variety for their landscape design.
- Easy Propagation: Can be propagated relatively easily from cuttings, allowing gardeners to expand their collection.
- Resilience: Once established, it is relatively low maintenance and can tolerate a degree of neglect.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Creative Craft Material: The long, flexible vines of Clematis can be woven into wreaths, dreamcatchers, or other artistic decorations, exploiting both their natural beauty and their tensile strength.
- Photography Prop: The striking blooms of the Clematis 'Poldice' can provide a vibrant and attractive background or subject for photographers looking to capture the beauty of nature.
- Education and Research: Clematis varieties like 'Poldice' can be used in botanical studies and educational programs to demonstrate plant growth habits, climbing mechanisms, and pollination strategies.
- Landscape Design: This Clematis variety can be strategically placed in gardens to create vertical interest or to add a splash of color on arbors, trellises, and fences.
- Nature-Inspired Art: The distinctive form and color of Clematis 'Poldice' can serve as inspiration for artists who may depict the plant in paintings, illustrations, and textile designs.
- Garden Sculpture Support: The vigorous climbing habit of Clematis can be used to cover and eventually showcase garden sculptures, creating a dynamic interplay between the natural and the crafted.
- Livestock Fodder: While not a common use and necessitating caution due to potential plant toxicity, some farmers have used clematis as emergency fodder under controlled conditions.
- Thematic Decorating: Its vibrant flowers can be incorporated into event decorations for weddings or garden parties where a botanical theme is desired.
- Cultural Ceremonies: In some cultures, Clematis vines and flowers are used in ceremonial garlands or decorations, playing a symbolic role in rituals and traditions.
- Erosion Control: When planted on slopes, the root system of Clematis can help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion, while also adding aesthetic value to the area.
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: Clematis, often reflecting the plant's climbing and versatile nature, symbolizes mental agility and the ability to think through complex ideas.
- Ingenuity: The intricate structure of the clematis flowers can signify ingenuity and clever problem-solving.
- Artistic Inspiration: The beauty and diverse colors of clematis blooms are often associated with creativity and artistic inspiration.
- Aspiration: Given the climbing habit of Clematis 'Poldice', it is frequently seen as a symbol of aspiration and striving to reach higher levels of achievement.
- Perseverance: The clematis's ability to climb and adapt to various supports represents determination and the will to persevere despite challenges.
WaterThe Clematis, commonly known as the Queen of the Vines, should be watered thoroughly on a weekly basis, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season and particularly in dry conditions, watering may need to be increased to a couple of times a week, especially for plants in containers. Aim to provide about one gallon of water each time you water an established plant, adjusting the volume slightly depending on weather conditions and the plant's location. Newly planted Clematis plants may require watering every two or three days until they are fully established. Always water directly at the base of the plant to encourage deep root growth and help reduce the risk of fungal diseases by keeping the foliage dry.
LightThe Clematis thrives best in a location that provides full sun to partial shade, with at least six hours of sunlight each day. Ideally, the Clematis 'Poldice' should be planted where the roots are kept cool and shaded, while allowing its vines and flowers to bask in the sun. The best spot would be one that enjoys morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight, particularly in hotter climates.
TemperatureClematis 'Poldice' prefers temperate conditions and will generally do well in average garden temperatures. These plants can survive winters where temperatures drop to around 20°F and can handle summer temperatures up to around 85°F. The ideal growing temperature range for Clematis is between 55°F and 75°F, which promotes healthy growth and flowering. It's important to protect the plant from extreme cold with mulch or other protective materials in winter and provide some shade during the hottest parts of the summer.
PruningPruning is essential for maintaining the vigor and floral abundance of the Queen of the Vines. Prune early-flowering Clematis in late winter or early spring, just as buds begin to swell, by removing dead or weak stems. For varieties that flower later in the season, including 'Poldice', prune back to strong leaf buds about 1 to 2 feet from the ground in late winter or early spring. Pruning encourages strong growth and helps prevent the plant from becoming tangled and overgrown, and it also promotes better air circulation, which can reduce the risk of disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis prefers a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline. Amend heavy soils with compost or well-rotted manure, and add horticultural grit to improve drainage. A mix of two-thirds garden soil and one-third compost or well-rotted manure works well for 'Queen of the Vines'.
Repotting'Queen of the Vines' typically does not need frequent repotting. It can often be left undisturbed for several years. However, if the plant outgrows its space or the soil becomes exhausted, repotting every 3 to 4 years is advisable.
Humidity & MistingIdeally, 'Queen of the Vines' should be grown in an outdoor environment where the humidity level is naturally regulated. They don't require high humidity and too much can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part-shade with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Clematis 'Poldice' begins with germination, which occurs when the seed is sown in well-drained soil, with temperatures typically between 65-75°F (18-24°C). After germination, the seedling develops into a young plant with a strong root system and distinctive leaves. As it matures, the clematis enters a vigorous growth phase during spring and summer, climbing structures with tendrils and producing lush foliage. This plant reaches the flowering stage in late spring to early summer, adorned with large, showy flowers that continue blooming in cycles until early fall, depending on the climate and care. Post-bloom, seed heads form, and if they are not pruned, they will disperse seeds for propagation. As a perennial, it enters a dormant period during the cold months, with the above-ground growth dying back, only to re-sprout the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Clematis 'Poldice', commonly known as Clematis, is most popularly propagated through layering, typically done in the spring or early summer. In this method, a long stem from the parent plant is gently bent to the ground and a portion of the stem notched, wounded or otherwise encouraged to form roots, and then covered with soil while still attached to the parent plant. The point of attachment should be secured with a stake or a heavy stone to maintain good contact with the soil. This area is kept moist to encourage roots to develop. Once a good set of roots has established, which could take a full growing season, the new plant can be severed from the parent and transplanted to its desired location.
