Clematis Stephanie Clematis 'Stephanie' (A)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Stephanie' is a flowering vine that boasts a striking display of blooms. The flowers of this clematis are particularly notable for their large, star-shaped formation, with each individual bloom consisting of multiple petals that radiate out from the center. These petals present a soft yet vibrant shade, ranging from pale pastels to deeper hues, which can create a captivating visual contrast against the vine's foliage. The leaves of Clematis 'Stephanie' are compound, with each leaf made up of several smaller leaflets. They are typically bright green in color and have a glossy texture that adds to the overall lush appearance of the plant. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems, which climb and meander, providing a verdant backdrop for the flowers. Furthemore, the sepals of Clematis 'Stephanie' can be slightly ruffled or wavy at the edges, giving the flowers a delicate, almost frilly look that enhances their decorative appeal. The stamens are often prominent, with contrasting colors that can stand out against the petals, drawing the eye to the center of the bloom. Together, the combination of striking flowers and attractive foliage makes Clematis 'Stephanie' a popular choice for gardeners looking to add vertical interest and floral beauty to their outdoor spaces. The plant's tendency to climb means it is often used to adorn trellises, walls, and arbors, where it can be allowed to sprawl and showcase its full flowering potential.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Stephanie Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Stephanie'
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including the variety 'Stephanie', can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause irritant effects on the skin and mucous membranes. When parts of the plant are eaten, symptoms might include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. Contact with the sap may cause skin irritation or dermatitis in some individuals. It is essential to handle Clematis with care and ensure that children do not consume any part of the plant.
To pets
Clematis, including the variety 'Stephanie', is also toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. If pets chew on or ingest parts of the Clematis plant, they can experience symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. The plant contains irritants that can cause gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, may lead to more serious symptoms. It is important to keep Clematis out of reach of pets and to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
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
Varies
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Clematis 'Stephanie' (A) offers beautiful lavender-blue flowers that can add visual interest and aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility: This plant can be trained to grow on trellises, walls, arbors, or pergolas, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Pollinator Attraction: The plant's flowers can attract beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: Clematis 'Stephanie' typically blooms in late spring to early summer, providing seasonal color and variety.
- Privacy: When grown on structures, this variety can create natural privacy screens for outdoor spaces.
- Low Maintenance: Requiring minimal care once established, this clematis can be a low-maintenance option for gardeners.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis can be used in art projects, such as natural dye for fabrics or papers, with petals and leaves potentially yielding subtle hues when boiled and applied.
- This plant's vines are sometimes used in basket weaving, providing both strength and decorative elements when dried properly.
- The durable vine structure can be manipulated to form natural fences or barriers, offering a green solution for garden compartmentalization.
- The aesthetic appeal of Clematis flowers can be captured through photography and botanical illustration, making it a subject for enthusiasts and artists alike.
- Floral arrangements often incorporate Clematis for its intricate blooms and climbing nature, adding vertical interest to bouquets and centerpieces.
- Clematis petals can be incorporated into homemade potpourri mixes, contributing a subtle fragrance and variety of color.
- In educational settings, Clematis can be used to teach botany and horticulture, illustrating topics such as plant growth habits and pruning techniques.
- Gardeners might use the plant as a living lab to experiment with propagation techniques, such as layering or stem cuttings.
- As an element in landscaping, Clematis can be trained to climb on gazebos or trellises, providing shade and ornamental value.
- Clematis can be used in insectary gardens to attract beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, which are vital for pollination.
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 is often associated with ingenuity and quick thinking, possibly due to its fast-growing nature and ability to climb and adapt to its surroundings.
- Creativity: With its abundant and imaginative blossoms, the clematis symbolizes the creative process and artistic expression.
- Aspiration: The way clematis vines reach upwards suggests striving for higher goals and aspirations, making the plant represent ambition.
- Spiritual Quest: In some traditions, the clematis represents a search for spirituality and truth as it stretches towards the sky.
- Beauty: The delicate and attractive flowers of clematis symbolize natural beauty and aesthetics.
WaterClematis 'Stephanie', commonly known as Queen of the Vines, requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, approximately once a week, with about one gallon of water per plant. During hotter, drier periods, increase the frequency to twice a week. Ensure that the water is directed at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. It's important to water deeply to encourage a strong root system but avoid overwatering which can cause root rot.
LightQueen of the Vines thrives best in a spot where it receives full sun to partial shade. The ideal light conditions are morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Ensure that the plant gets at least six hours of sunlight to flourish and produce abundant blooms.
TemperatureQueen of the Vines prefers a temperate climate and does best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 85°F. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 25°F but should be protected from harsh winter winds. The ideal temperature range for vigorous growth is between 65°F and 75°F.
PruningPruning the Queen of the Vines encourages healthy growth and increases bloom production. Prune lightly in the early spring to remove any dead or weak stems. Regular pruning should occur after the plant has finished flowering, usually late summer or early fall, to shape the vine and encourage new growth for the following season. The best time for major pruning is right after flowering, cutting back up to one-third of the older stems to promote fresh growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis 'Stephanie', a type of clematis vine, thrives in a well-draining, rich soil mix with compost or well-rotted manure added. A slightly alkaline to neutral pH of around 6.5 to 7.5 is optimal for this plant's growth.
RepottingClematis vines, such as 'Stephanie', generally do not require frequent repotting once they are established in the garden or landscape. Repot container-grown plants every 2 to 3 years or when they outgrow their current pot.
Humidity & MistingClematis 'Stephanie' prefers moderate ambient humidity but is quite adaptable and can succeed in varying humidity levels typical of outdoor environments. Avoid excessive humidity to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light, cool temps, and good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade to full sun with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Stephanie' begins its life as a seed, which when planted and given the right conditions, will germinate and emerge as a seedling. As it grows, it develops a root system and foliage, entering a vegetative stage where it focuses on growth and leaf production. As the plant matures, it starts to produce vines and climbs, given its nature as a climbing plant, often seeking support structures like trellises or other plants to support its weight. During spring and summer, Clematis 'Stephanie' enters its flowering stage, producing large, attractive flowers that can be a range of colors, depending on the specific variety. After pollination, these flowers will develop into seed heads if not deadheaded, leading to the distribution of seeds that can start the life cycle anew. In the fall or winter, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, where it conserves energy until conditions are favorable for growth in the new season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Clematis 'Stephanie', commonly known as Clematis, can be propagated by several methods, with layering being one of the most popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Typically, the propagation time for Clematis is in the spring, just as the plant emerges from dormancy and begins to show signs of new growth. To propagate Clematis by layering, a healthy, long vine is chosen and a portion of it is gently bent to the ground. A small notch is made in the vine where it touches the soil, which encourages rooting. The notched section is then covered with soil, leaving the tip of the vine exposed. To ensure contact with the soil and encourage root formation, it is sometimes useful to secure the vine with a u-shaped wire or a stone. Over the course of several months, roots will develop at the notched section. Once a strong root system is established, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to its desired location.
