Clematis Proteus Clematis 'Proteus' (EL)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Proteus' is a captivating flowering vine cherished for its showy appearance. The plant features large, multi-layered flowers with petals that have an opulent mauve-pink coloring. The blooms often exhibit a rosette-like form due to their prolific and gathered petal structure, creating a lush, ruffled look. Each individual petal is broad with a gently curved edge, adding to the flower's ornamental appeal. At the center, the blossoms showcase a contrasting pomp of creamy-yellow stamens, creating an eye-catching visual that draws in both garden admirers and pollinators alike. The foliage of Clematis 'Proteus' provides a fresh backdrop to the flowers, consisting of mid-green leaves that are divided into leaflets, which spread tastefully along the plant's climbing stems. The overall visual effect of this cultivar is one of elegance and romance, making it a favorite for garden trellises, arches, and walls where it can display its full floral splendor in the growing season. Its blossoms have the remarkable ability to evolve in color and form as they mature, offering a changing spectacle throughout its blooming period, which adds to the dynamic character of this garden gem.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Queen of the Vines, Clematis 'Proteus', Proteus Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Proteus' (EL)
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis 'Proteus,' commonly known as Clematis, possesses compounds that can be toxic if ingested. However, its toxicity level is generally considered to be low to moderate. Symptoms of poisoning from clematis ingestion may include mouth irritation and burning, salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. In some cases, skin contact with the sap can cause dermatitis or skin irritation.
To pets
Clematis 'Proteus,' commonly referred to as Clematis, is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. Similar to humans, the toxicity is usually low to moderate but can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and in some cases, symptoms may progress to ataxia or muscle tremors. It is important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant and seek veterinary attention if poisoning is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Clematis 'Proteus' is prized for its large, double or semi-double blooms with lilac-pink petals that provide a stunning display in the garden or on trellises.
- Versatility: This variety of clematis can be trained to climb fences, walls, trellises, and arches, making it a versatile addition to various garden designs.
- Long Bloom Period: It flowers from late spring to early summer and often has a second bloom in autumn, extending the period of visual interest in the garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, promoting a healthy and vibrant ecosystem.
- Improves Garden Structure: By using vertical space, Clematis 'Proteus' can add height and structure to garden beds and borders.
- Seasonal Color: The plant provides seasonal color changes with its foliage and flowers, adding dynamism to the garden throughout the growing season.
- Easy to Prune: Falling into Pruning Group 2, this clematis only needs light pruning to remove dead or weak stems, which is relatively simple and can be done by gardeners at all levels of experience.
- Container Growth: It can be grown in containers on patios or balconies, making it suitable for those with limited garden space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis 'Proteus' can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of subtle green hues depending on the mordant used.
- When dried, the petals of this clematis can be incorporated into potpourri mixes to add fragrance and texture.
- Artists may use the crushed petals of clematis 'Proteus' to create botanical watercolors for painting.
- The vines can be trained to grow over frames to create living sculptures or garden focal points.
- Clematis 'Proteus' can be planted to provide a privacy screen when grown on lattice or along fences.
- The plant can be used in educational settings to demonstrate the principles of climbing plant growth and support structures.
- Clematis 'Proteus' can be part of a butterfly garden as it provides nectar for pollinators.
- The dried seed heads can be used in floral arrangements to add a unique, wispy element to the design.
- Gardeners might use pruned clematis 'Proteus' branches to create natural trellises for other climbing plants.
- The robust nature of clematis 'Proteis' makes it suitable for use in reclamation projects where beautification is desired along with erosion control.
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's ability to climb and adapt to its surroundings symbolizes flexibility and swift thinking.
- Ingenuity: Named after the shape-shifting sea god Proteus in Greek mythology, this variety signifies cleverness and the capacity to tackle challenges creatively.
- Aspiration: As the clematis reaches upward, it embodies one's aspirations and desires to achieve greater heights.
- Artistic Inspiration: The blossoming of the clematis Proteus with its intricate flower form represents the blossoming of creative ideas and artistic pursuits.
WaterThe Queen of the Vines, or Clematis 'Proteus', requires consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. It's best to water the plant deeply once a week, providing about one gallon of water, ensuring that the soil is moistened thoroughly but allowing the top inch to dry out between waterings. During the hot summer months or in particularly dry conditions, you may need to water twice a week. It's vital to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.
LightFor the optimal growth of the Queen of the Vines, it is crucial to plant Clematis 'Proteus' in a location where it receives full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot is where its roots are shaded either by low plantings or mulch, but the foliage basks in the sun for at least six hours a day. During the hottest part of the day, some filtered shade can help protect the plant from scorching.
TemperatureThe Queen of the Vines thrives best in temperatures ranging between 50°F and 75°F but can survive short periods of colder winter temperatures down to about 20°F. Avoid planting in locations where temperatures drop below this range for extended periods. The plant performs best in mild climates without extreme heat or cold, although it is quite adaptable to variations once established.
PruningPrune the Queen of the Vines in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This plant benefits from pruning to promote vigorous growth and enhance flowering. For Clematis 'Proteus', which is a Group 2 variety, light pruning is recommended to remove dead or weak stems and shape the plant; this also encourages multiple flushes of blooms on both old and new wood throughout the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Clematis 'Proteus', commonly known as Clematis, should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, with a pH close to neutral, between 6.5 and 7.0. A mixture comprising one-third each of loamy soil, compost, and well-rotted manure or perlite is ideal for encouraging healthy growth.
RepottingClematis 'Proteus', commonly known as Clematis, typically requires repotting every 2-3 years. It's essential to repot to refresh the soil and provide additional space for the root system to grow, especially if growth appears to be stunted or the plant has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingClematis 'Proteus', commonly known as Clematis, prefers a moderate humidity level that mimics outdoor conditions, but it is not a high humidity-demanding plant. Ensuring good air circulation around the plant is important to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Clematis indoors near a bright window; support with a trellis.
Outdoor
Plant Clematis in sun/partial shade; provide a trellis or support.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Proteus' begins its life as a seed, which, upon germination, develops a root system and shoots that emerge from the soil surface. These shoots grow into vines, with leaves unfurling as they mature. The plant enters a vigorous vegetative state, climbing and spreading with the help of tendrils or support structures. In late spring to early summer, and sometimes again in late summer, Clematis 'Proteus' produces large, double or semi-double pink to mauve flowers that are often layered or ruffled, signaling its reproductive phase. Once pollination occurs, seed heads form, which eventually disperse seeds to begin a new cycle. During winter, the vine undergoes dormancy, where above-ground growth may die back, especially in colder climates, but the root system remains alive to resprout in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Clematis 'Proteus' is best propagated through layering in late winter or early spring, before the new growth starts. To execute layering, select a long, healthy vine and gently scratch the surface of the stem to expose the cambium. Apply rooting hormone to the wounded area, then bend the stem down to the ground or a pot filled with soil, securing the wounded part beneath the soil while keeping the tip exposed. Over the top of the buried section, place a stone or pin to hold it in place. After several months, roots will form at the site of injury. Once a healthy root system is established, which may be evidenced by new growth at the tip, the new plant can be severed from the parent and transplanted to its permanent location.
