Clematis Rebecca Clematis Rebecca = 'Evipo016' (PBR) (EL)
ABOUT
Clematis Rebecca, often referred to simply as Clematis, boasts a striking display of large, vibrant flowers. The blooms are a rich, velvety red, perhaps one of the most intense reds found in Clematis varieties. These dazzling flowers can exhibit a round-to-star-like shape and prominently feature six to eight overlapping petals. In the center of each bloom, a cluster of creamy-white to yellow stamens creates a beautiful contrast against the deep red petals, making the flowers stand out even more in a garden setting. The foliage of Clematis Rebecca is equally attractive, consisting of dark green leaves that provide a lush backdrop for the spectacular floral display. The leaves are typically compound, with multiple leaflets arranged on each stem, which adds texture and depth to the plant's overall appearance. Throughout its blooming period, Clematis Rebecca can create a show-stopping presence with its generous flush of colorful flowers, which are appreciated by gardeners looking to add a touch of drama and elegance to trellises, walls, or arbors.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Rebecca Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Evipo016'
- Toxicity
To humans
The Clematis, specifically the Clematis 'Rebecca', is known to contain toxic compounds such as protoanemonin, which can be harmful if ingested. The symptoms of clematis poisoning can include irritation of the mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, internal bleeding. Skin contact with the sap can also lead to dermatitis in some individuals. It is important to handle the plant with care and to ensure that all parts, particularly the small attractive flowers and the rest of the plant, are kept out of the reach of children who may be tempted to taste them. If ingestion does occur, medical advice should be sought immediately.
To pets
Clematis, including the Clematis 'Rebecca', is also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Similar to its effects in humans, the ingestion of clematis can lead to symptoms including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea in pets. More severe cases can result in tremors, seizures, or even organ failure if a large amount is consumed. As pets, especially cats, may be attracted to the plant, it should be kept out of reach to prevent any accidental ingestion. If you suspect your pet has ingested clematis, it is important to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Vibrant Color: Clematis Rebecca produces striking deep red flowers that add a vivid splash of color to the garden.
- Long Blooming Period: This variety has a long flowering season, often from late spring to early autumn, providing extended visual interest.
- Vertical Interest: The climbing habit of Clematis Rebecca can add height and vertical interest to garden designs, trellises, and walls.
- Easy Pruning: Group 3 pruning class means it can be cut back hard in late winter or early spring, simplifying maintenance.
- Attracts Wildlife: The blooms can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Compact Growth: Suitable for small gardens or containers due to its relatively compact growth habit compared to other clematis varieties.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Clematis Rebecca can be quite drought tolerant, requiring less watering and maintenance.
- Versatility: Can be grown in a variety of soil types and positions, both in full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to many garden settings.
- Deer Resistant: Typically resistant to deer, which can be particularly beneficial in areas where deer browsing is a problem for gardeners.
- Year-Round Interest: The seed heads provide architectural interest even after the flowering season, extending the decorative period through winter.
- 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
- Creating natural art or photography backdrops: The bright magenta color of the Clematis Rebecca flowers provides a striking background for artists or photographers looking to add natural beauty to their work.
- Motif in textile designs: The intricate patterns of Clematis Rebecca’s petals can inspire textile patterns for clothing, scarves, or upholstery fabrics.
- Fairy gardens: Miniature Clematis Rebecca plants can be used to create enchanting scenes in small-scale fairy gardens.
- Educational tool in botany classes: Clematis Rebecca can be grown and observed in educational settings to teach students about plant growth, climbing mechanisms, and reproduction.
- Privacy screens in gardens: When grown on trellises, Clematis Rebecca can provide a natural screen, offering privacy and aesthetic appeal to garden spaces.
- Decorative garnishes: Although not for consumption, petals of Clematis Rebecca can decorate plates and platters for special events, adding a vivid splash of color.
- Botanical ink creation: The bright petals of Clematis Rebecca can be used in the process of making natural dyes or inks for artisanal crafts and hobbies.
- Theme gardens: Clematis Rebecca can be included in theme gardens, such as "purple gardens," where the aim is to display plants with purple-hued foliage or flowers.
- Plant pairing in horticultural shows: Clematis Rebecca can be strategically paired with other plants to compete in horticultural competitions, showcasing its climbing abilities and vibrant flowers.
- Seasonal festivals: Clematis Rebecca can play a role in floral festivals or parades, especially when in full bloom, to highlight the beauty of seasonal flowers.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Intellect and Mental Beauty: The Clematis often symbolizes cleverness and intellectual pursuits due to its intricate and intelligent growth patterns, which seem to exhibit problem-solving skills as they climb.
- Ingeniousness: Its ability to thrive and adapt in various conditions signifies resourcefulness and the clever use of one's talents.
- Aspiration and Climbing to New Heights: As a climber, the Clematis can represent personal growth, ambition, and the pursuit of higher goals.
- Perseverance: The tenacity of clematis to climb and cover spaces symbolizes determination and the will to persevere through challenges.
- Protection: In some cultures, clematis is thought to offer protection, its growth providing a living shield around the structures it covers.
- Artistic Inspiration: The beauty of the Clematis can also stand for the artistic muse, inspiring creativity in artists and onlookers alike.
- Water
Clematis, commonly known as Rebecca Clematis, prefers consistently moist soil, so it's important to water it regularly. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly once a week with about 1 gallon of water, ensuring it reaches the roots. In hot or dry weather, increase watering to twice a week. However, be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. In winter, reduce watering as the plant's water needs decrease. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again.
- Light
Rebecca Clematis thrives in a location where it can receive around 6 hours of sunlight daily, but it does best with its roots shaded and its flowers in the sun. An ideal spot would be where the base of the plant is covered by low-growing shrubs or has a mulch to keep the roots cool, while the upper part of the plant can enjoy the sunlight. Avoid placing it in a spot where it is exposed to intense midday sun, as this may harm the plant.
- Temperature
Rebecca Clematis prefers a temperate climate and can survive a range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, meaning it can withstand minimum winter temperatures between -30°F and 30°F. The ideal growing temperature for this Clematis is between 65°F and 75°F. Extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, can stress the plant, so protection from harsh winter winds and intense summer heat is beneficial.
- Pruning
Rebecca Clematis benefits from pruning to encourage strong growth and flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring by cutting back the previous year's growth to strong pairs of buds about 1 foot above ground level. This type of Clematis falls into Pruning Group 3, which means it flowers on the current year's growth, so annual pruning helps to rejuvenate the plant and ensures abundant blooms. The best time for pruning is when the buds begin to swell but before active growth starts.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Clematis Rebecca prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, from 6.5 to 7.5. A mix comprising equal parts of garden soil, compost, and well-rotted manure or a balanced commercial potting mix enriched with compost is suitable. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
- Repotting
Clematis Rebecca should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Spring is the best time to repot to allow the plant to establish in the new pot before the growing season.
- Humidity & Misting
Clematis Rebecca thrives best in moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor conditions. While it does not require high humidity, ensuring good air circulation around the plant helps in maintaining a healthy humidity balance.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and support with a trellis.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade to full sun with a support structure.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
- Life cycle
Clematis Rebecca, also known as 'Evipo016', begins its life cycle as a seed, though it is more commonly propagated by cuttings or layering to maintain its distinct characteristics. After planting, it enters a juvenile vegetative stage, producing stems and leaves, and establishing a root system. As it matures, it enters the flowering stage, typically from late spring to early autumn, and produces large, vivid red or magenta blooms that attract pollinators. Post-flowering, it develops seed heads, which can self-sow or be collected for propagation. During the winter, Clematis Rebecca becomes dormant, with the above-ground portions dying back, especially in colder climates, but with the roots remaining alive. Each spring, it regrows from the crown or root system, continuing its perennial cycle.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The Clematis 'Rebecca' can be propagated effectively through softwood cuttings, a method that is particularly popular with many clematis varieties. In the early summer when the plant’s growth is soft and flexible, cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) can be taken just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are then stripped, and it's helpful to dip the end of the cutting into rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting should be placed in a well-drained potting mix, ensuring that the node where the leaves were removed is beneath the surface of the soil. The pot should be kept in a warm and light area but not in direct sunlight, and the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Roots will generally develop within a few weeks, after which the new clematis plant can eventually be transplanted outdoors.