White Lady Clematis 'Valge Daam' (LL)
ABOUT
The Clematis 'Valge Daam', also known as the White Lady Clematis, is a striking climbing plant renowned for its exquisite floral display. This clematis variety is adorned with large, showy blooms that possess a romantic charm. Each individual flower features an alluring composition of velvety, rounded petals that have a tendency to overlap. These petals are of a pure, creamy white color, which can seem almost luminescent against the backdrop of green foliage. At the center of the blossoms, you'll find a cluster of contrasting, pale yellow stamens that add a dash of color and intrigue to the overall appearance of the flower. The foliage of the White Lady Clematis is also quite attractive. The leaves are bright green, lending a lush and vibrant essence to the plant's form. Their shape is primarily composed of leaflets of delicate texture that are arranged in a fashion that gracefully accompanies the climbing nature of the clematis. As the plant scales its supporting structure, it creates a verdant tapestry that can enliven any garden space. Throughout its blooming period, the White Lady Clematis becomes an irresistible lure for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, due to its abundant and nectar-rich flowers. The contrast between the striking white blooms and vivid green leaves makes it a popular choice among garden enthusiasts looking to add a touch of elegance to trellises, arbors, or walls. The beauty of this plant lies in its floriferous display and its ability to infuse a sense of peace and purity in the landscape through its color palette and graceful growth habit.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Estonian Clematis, White Lady Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Valge Daam' (LL)
ToxicityTo humans
The Clematis, specifically the 'Valge Daam' variety, is known to have toxic properties. All parts of the plant are considered potentially harmful if ingested. Eating parts of a Clematis can lead to severe mouth pain and ulcers. If a significant amount is consumed, symptoms of poisoning might include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. In some cases, there might be internal complications leading to symptoms such as dizziness or fainting. Immediate medical attention is advised if ingestion occurs to prevent or manage more serious effects.
To pets
The Clematis plant, including the 'Valge Daam' variety, is toxic to pets. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea in animals like cats and dogs. In more severe cases, it may lead to symptoms such as low blood pressure, ataxia (loss of control of body movements), and incoordination. If you suspect your pet has consumed Clematis, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately to provide appropriate care and prevent more serious health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Clematis 'Valge Daam' features attractive white flowers that can enhance the visual aesthetics of gardens and landscapes.
- Climbing Habit: It can be trained to climb trellises, walls, and other structures, adding vertical interest to garden designs.
- Seasonal Color: It provides seasonal blooms, offering a display of color during its flowering period, which is typically from late spring to early summer.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, helping to pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for once established, requiring minimal maintenance such as occasional pruning and watering.
- Versatility: This plant can be grown in a variety of settings, including borders, containers, and as part of cottage gardens.
- Privacy Screen: When grown on fences or trellises, Clematis 'Valge Daam' can provide a natural privacy screen.
- Cold Hardy: It is tolerant of cold temperatures, making it suitable for gardeners in cooler climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Craft Material: The flexible vines of Clematis 'Valge Daam' can be used to weave small baskets or decorative wreaths.
- Insect Deterrent: Some gardeners believe that the plant may help deter aphids and other garden pests when planted among vegetables and fruits.
- Fragrance Source: The flowers can be placed in a bowl of water to naturally perfume a room with their subtle fragrance.
- Dye Source: The petals of Clematis 'Valge Daam' can potentially be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or papers.
- Floating Decor: The blossoms can float in water features or birdbaths for aesthetic purposes, adding a touch of elegance to garden spaces.
- Photography Prop: The beautiful blooms and lush foliage serve as an exquisite backdrop for nature photography and artistic compositions.
- Garden Structure: The climbing habit of Clematis 'Valge Daam' can be used to create living arches or tunnels when guided over appropriate frameworks.
- Dried Arrangements: The seed heads can be dried and used in floral arrangements for their unique texture and appearance.
- Educational Tool: This plant can be used to teach about climbing plant mechanisms and pollination in educational settings such as schools and nature centers.
- Support for Climbing Plants: The sturdy stems of older Clematis 'Valge Daam' plants can serve as natural support for other lighter or less vigorous climbers in the garden.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Ingenuity and Intellectual Beauty – Clematis plants are often associated with cleverness and brainpower due to their complex and intricate flower structures, which could reflect an appreciation for intellectual pursuits.
- Mental Prowess – As a plant that requires thoughtful care, the Clematis can symbolize one's capacity for mental acuity and the ability to solve problems.
- Artistic Inspiration – With its stunning flowers, Clematis may represent creativity and inspire artists in their work.
- Spiritual Ascent – The climbing nature of Clematis can signify a spiritual journey or personal growth, as the vines reach upwards.
WaterWhite clematis should be watered thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, which may mean watering once a week with about 1 gallon of water, depending on the weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, more frequent watering may be necessary. In winter, reduce watering, but do not let the soil dry out completely. It's crucial to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
LightFor white clematis, the ideal light condition is full sun to partial shade. An optimal spot would provide the plant with at least six hours of sunlight a day. The base and roots of the plant can benefit from some shade or cooler temperatures, so consider planting low-growing shrubs or placing a mulch around the base to achieve this effect.
TemperatureWhite clematis thrives in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. It can survive temperatures as low as -20°F and as high as 95°F. The clematis will benefit from being planted where it can receive morning sun and afternoon shade, to protect it from the hottest temperatures of the day.
PruningPruning white clematis is important to promote vigorous growth and flowering. It should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. White clematis belongs to pruning group 2, which means it should be lightly pruned to remove dead and weak stems, and to shape the plant as desired. After the initial spring bloom, light pruning can encourage a second flowering period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis, including the 'White Lady' cultivar, thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A good soil mix would consist of two parts loam, one part well-rotted compost, and one part fine bark or perlite for aeration and drainage. PH should be slightly alkaline to neutral, around 7.0 to 7.5.
RepottingClematis 'White Lady' should be repotted every 2-3 years, or more frequently if it outgrows its current pot. Choose a container only slightly larger than the last as clematis prefer snug conditions.
Humidity & MistingThe 'White Lady' clematis benefits from moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a range of conditions. Avoid extremely dry environments that could stress the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow 'White Lady' clematis in a bright spot with support for climbing.
Outdoor
Plant 'White Lady' clematis in sun to partial shade with climbing aid.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Valge Daam', commonly known as Clematis 'White Lady,' begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination, sends out a primary root and shoots that grow into a young plant. The vegetative stage includes the development of the vine’s distinctive compound leaves and climbing tendrils that allow it to ascend structures or other plants for support. During the flowering stage, typically in late spring through to early summer, it produces large, showy white flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into fluffy seed heads containing numerous seeds, which mark the plant's reproductive stage. Clematis 'White Lady' enters a period of dormancy in colder months, conserving energy and resources, only to resume growth in the following spring, continuing the cycle for many years as a perennial plant. Pruning, which is an important maintenance stage, can be performed after flowering to encourage healthy new growth and more floriferous displays in succeeding years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Clematis 'Valge Daam', also known as the White Lady Clematis, is commonly propagated through layering. This method involves bending a lower, flexible stem to the ground and partially burying it in the soil to encourage roots to form at that point. Once the stem has established sufficient roots, which generally takes a full growing season, the new plant can be severed from the parent and transplanted to a different location. This technique is most effective when conducted in spring, just as the plant emerges from dormancy and begins active growth. It allows the layer to develop roots throughout the spring and summer, providing a well-rooted new plant by fall or the following spring. Layering is a preferable method for home gardeners as it doesn't require complex skills and uses the natural growth habit of the clematis to produce a new plant identical to the parent.
