Clematis Clematis 'Viola' (LL)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Viola' is a flowering vine that boasts an alluring display. The key characteristic of this plant is its large, velvety flowers that generally blossom in a rich shade of violet, from which it presumably gets its name. Each flower is composed of six to eight petals, fanning out to create a striking visual spectacle. These petals are often rounded and may exhibit a slightly undulating edge, adding to their ornamental charm. The center of the Clematis 'Viola' flower is adorned with a spray of contrasting stamens. These offer a pop of color, typically in shades of yellow or creamy white, which creates a beautiful focal point. The leaves of Clematis 'Viola' provide a lush backdrop for the showy blooms, with their deep green hue and glossy texture. They tend to be compound leaves with leaflets that spread out along the vine's climbing structure. Supporting these eye-catching elements, the vine itself is a hardy climber, with a habit of twining around any available support. It uses its leaf stalks to wind its way upwards, aiming for sunlight and exposure. When in full bloom, Clematis 'Viola' provides a luxurious cascade of color which can enhance the aesthetic of garden structures like trellises and pergolas, making it a favorite among garden enthusiasts for adding vertical interest and a touch of romance to the garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Viola Clematis, Leather Flower
Common names
Clematis 'Viola' (LL).
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including the variety 'Viola', contains a compound known as protoanemonin, which can be toxic if ingested. If someone eats parts of the clematis plant, they might experience symptoms such as salivation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, mouth blisters or ulcers. Skin contact with the sap may result in dermatitis for sensitive individuals. Handling the plant with care and avoiding ingestion is advisable to prevent these potentially unpleasant consequences.
To pets
Clematis, is also toxic to pets like cats and dogs. Like humans, if pets consume parts of the clematis plant, they could present with similar symptoms including excessive drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. It's important to keep pets away from clematis to prevent these adverse health effects. If you suspect your pet has ingested clematis, seeking veterinary care is recommended.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Violet
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
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Clematis 'Viola' provides vibrant violet-purple flowers that add a splash of color to gardens and landscapes.
- Climbing Habit: It can be trained on trellises, arbors, and fences, making it ideal for vertical gardening and space saving.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a long flowering period throughout the summer, adding seasonal beauty to outdoor spaces.
- Wildlife Attraction: Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Versatility: Suitable for planting in a variety of locations, including borders, containers, and as a ground cover when properly managed.
- Easy to Grow: Relatively easy to care for, which is suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Pruning Tolerance: Responds well to pruning, allowing gardeners to control size and shape, and to promote healthy growth.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis 'Viola' can be used in the art of flower pressing, where its vibrant flowers are preserved and used for crafting bookmarks, greeting cards, or wall art.
- The plant's climbing ability makes it ideal for creating natural screens or living walls, providing privacy and beauty in gardens and on terraces.
- Clematis 'Viola' vines can be trained to grow over unsightly structures or fences, effectively camouflaging them with lush foliage and blooms.
- Their long stems and large flowers make them suitable for use in large-scale floral arrangements or as a centerpiece in event decoration.
- Photographers can make use of Clematis 'Viola' as a natural backdrop to add depth and interest to portraits and macro photography.
- The plant can be cultivated as a companion plant to assist in the support and growth of other garden plants that may benefit from its climbing structure.
- Its dried seed heads can be collected and used in dried flower arrangements or as a unique addition to potpourri mixes.
- Gardeners can use the vibrant Clematis 'Viola' to create 'living paintings' by training the vines on frames to form patterns or pictures.
- The flowers of the Clematis 'Viola' can be used to infuse vinegar, adding a floral flavor for culinary experimentation.
- In educational settings, the plant can be used to teach children about the lifecycle of plants and the basics of botany, due to its distinctive growth habits and visible seed heads.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Ingeniousness: Clematis 'Viola' is often associated with cleverness and intelligence due to its complex and intricate flowers, which may require careful attention to thrive.
- Mental Beauty: The plant's striking appearance has made it symbolize the beauty of the mind and spirit rather than just physical attractiveness.
- Artistic Inspiration: With its vibrant violet blooms, the Clematis 'Viola' is thought to inspire creativity and is a muse for artists and writers.
- Connections and Relationships: The way clematis vines climb and intertwine can symbolize how relationships grow and develop, making it a symbol of connectivity.
WaterThe Clematis Viola, commonly known as clematis, should be watered thoroughly to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant with about 1 gallon of water once a week, making adjustments for rainfall and temperature. In hot and dry conditions, you may need to water clematis twice a week, but always check the soil moisture first. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
LightClematis Viola thrives in full sun to partial shade. However, it's best to plant it where its roots are shaded or mulched, and its foliage can enjoy the sun. If the plant is grown in an area with too much shade, it might not flower well. Ideally, the clematis should receive around 6 hours of sunlight each day.
TemperatureThe Clematis Viola is hardy and can generally tolerate temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit and can thrive in areas where temperatures reach up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature for clematis is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure to provide winter protection if temperatures drop significantly below its minimum threshold.
PruningPruning Clematis Viola promotes healthy growth and flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring before active growth begins, removing dead or weak stems. This plant benefits from annual pruning to maintain shape and size. Prune after the first flush of flowers if a second blossoming is desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Clematis, commonly known as the Leatherflower, is a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6 to 7.5. To create a conducive environment for growth, mix garden soil with compost or well-rotted manure and a handful of granular fertilizer. Ensure that the soil allows for adequate moisture retention without becoming waterlogged.
RepottingLeatherflowers typically do not need to be repotted frequently. However, if the plant outgrows its container or the soil becomes exhausted, repotting every 2-3 years can help maintain its health. It's best done in late winter or early spring, just before active growth begins.
Humidity & MistingLeatherflowers thrive in moderate humidity levels. They do not require high humidity environments but should not be subjected to very dry air for extended periods. Maintaining natural outdoor humidity levels will generally suffice for these plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in fertile soil, partial shade to full sun.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Viola', commonly known as Clematis, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring, requiring well-drained soil and a period of stratification. Seedlings develop into juvenile plants with a climbing habit, needing structural support to grow vertically. Throughout the growing season, the Clematis 'Viola' matures, producing its distinctive large, violet flowers, usually from late spring to early autumn. After flowering, the plant sets seed in the form of feathery, plumed seed heads that disperse for the next generation. In colder climates, the Clematis 'Viola' will die back to the ground in winter, entering a period of dormancy. With the arrival of spring, new shoots emerge from the plant’s crown, repeating the yearly life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagating Clematis 'Viola', commonly known as Leather Flower, is through layering, typically done during spring or early summer. To propagate through layering, a healthy, long stem is selected and a small portion is scraped to expose the inner tissue. This wounded section of the stem is then pinned down onto the soil using a U-shaped wire or a stone. The contact point with soil is often dusted with rooting hormone to encourage root development. The area should be kept moist until roots form, which could take several months. Once a good root system is established, the new plant can be severed from the parent and transplanted to its desired location.
