Clematis Clematis 'Walenburg' (Vt)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Walenburg', also known as the Virgin's Bower, is a stunning climbing plant that showcases lush green foliage and striking flowers. The foliage consists of a collection of compound leaves, which gracefully frame the flowers. These leaves can provide a dense, leafy backdrop which makes the flowers stand out even more prominently. The flowers are the most captivating feature of the Virgin's Bower. They bloom in beautiful shades which can range from a deep mauve to rich purples, with each flower sporting a velvety texture. A unique characteristic of these flowers is their shape; they boast a classic clematis form with multiple petal-like sepals that unfurl outward, displaying a regal, almost star-shaped silhouette. The center of each flower is accented with a tuft of creamy yellow stamens that add a contrasting pop of color and allure to the overall appearance. These blooms are not solitary; they often appear in abundant clusters, creating a visually impactful display that can cover the climbing structure this plant is supported by. The blooming period extends through the warmer months, providing a lasting display of vivacity and charm. Virgin's Bower has a robust and sprawling habit, using tendrils to climb and adhere to any available support. It can be trained over trellises, fences, or arbors which makes it a versatile plant for landscaping and garden design, contributing vertical interest and a dynamic, textured look to the space it inhabits. The overall impression of Clematis 'Walenburg' is one of opulence and ornate natural beauty, as it drapes its environment in color and lushness.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Walenburg Clematis, Viticella Clematis
Common names
Clematis 'Walenburg' (Vt).
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, including the variety 'Walenburg', can be toxic if ingested. All parts of the plant contain protoanemonin, which is released when the plant is chewed or crushed. Symptoms of clematis poisoning may include irritation of the mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, formation of ulcers in the mouth or throat. The severity of symptoms will vary depending on the amount consumed. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Clematis, including the variety 'Walenburg', is also toxic to pets. The plant contains protoanemonin, which can cause similar symptoms as in humans when ingested by animals. Symptoms in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and in some cases, ataxia or convulsions. The sap of the plant may also lead to dermatitis if it comes in contact with your pet's skin. Immediate veterinary care is advised if a pet ingests any part of a clematis plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Garden origin
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Clematis 'Walenburg' can attract bees and butterflies, contributing to pollination in the garden.
- Provides vertical interest: Its climbing habit allows it to cover trellises, walls, or arbors, adding height and structure to garden design.
- Offers seasonal color: Producing vivid flowers, the plant adds a splash of color to the garden, especially during its blooming season in late spring and summer.
- Easy to grow: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance once established, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Versatile planting options: Clematis 'Walenburg' can be planted in containers or in the ground, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Durable: It is a hardy plant that can withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Long blooming period: The plant can have a long flowering period when properly cared for, providing long-lasting visual interest.
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 cut flower arrangements for a touch of elegance and visual interest with their vibrant blooms and intricate petal structures.
- They can serve as natural privacy screens when grown on trellises, offering a living barrier that is both beautiful and practical.
- With their climbing habit, clematis vines are ideal for covering unsightly structures like sheds or old fences, adding aesthetic value to the garden.
- Clematis plants can be trained to grow over archways or pergolas, creating stunning floral canopies for garden pathways or sitting areas.
- The dried seed heads of clematis can be used in dried floral displays, adding texture and interest to the composition.
- Gardeners can use clematis as companion plants to roses, where they complement each other in terms of height, form, and color.
- Incorporating clematis into a wildlife garden can attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which are drawn to their nectar-rich flowers.
- When used in containers, clematis can add vertical interest to balconies, patios, and other small urban spaces.
- Some artists and crafters use the intricate shapes of clematis flowers and leaves as inspiration for botanical illustrations, jewelry, and textile designs.
- Gardeners can utilize the fast-growing nature of clematis to quickly fill in gaps in the landscape, adding a pop of color wherever needed.
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 'Walenburg', often referred to as Clematis, is associated with cleverness and the ability to think on one's feet due to its complex and intricate vine structure.
- Ingeniousness: The plant's versatility and varied growing habits symbolize creativity and the ability to thrive in different environments.
- Aspiration: With its tendency to climb and reach towards the sky, Clematis represents ambition and the pursuit of one's goals.
- Artistic Inspiration: The beautiful flowers of the Clematis symbolize the muse for artists, suggesting an inspiration for art and beauty.
- Traveler's Joy: One of the common names for Clematis is 'Traveler's Joy,' which suggests a carefree and adventurous spirit, symbolic of a love for exploration.
- Spiritual Exploration: The upward growth of Clematis can symbolize a spiritual journey or quest for higher knowledge.
WaterClematis, commonly known as the Queen of the Vines, prefers consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. It should be watered thoroughly once a week, providing about one gallon of water per plant. During hot or dry periods, you may need to water twice a week to maintain even soil moisture. The goal is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as clematis roots are sensitive to overwatering. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
LightClematis thrives best in a spot that provides a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day, which ensures adequate light for blooming. It's ideal to position the plant where the foliage receives sunlight while the roots remain shaded, as too much direct heat can harm the roots. Morning sun and afternoon shade work well for clematis.
TemperatureClematis prefers temperate climates and can generally tolerate temperatures from around 40 degrees Fahrenheit to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Though they can survive brief dips below this range and highs above it, growth and flowering are optimal within this temperature bracket. Protecting the plant from extreme heat and cold is essential for the health of the Clematis.
PruningPruning Clematis encourages vigorous growth and flowers. For Clematis 'Walenburg,' which is a Group 2 type, pruning should be light. Remove dead and weak stems in late winter or early spring, and after the first flush of flowers in summer, lightly prune to shape the plant and encourage a second bloom. Pruning for this group focuses mainly on deadheading and shaping rather than heavy cutting back.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis, often known as the Queen of Vines, thrives in a well-draining soil mix with a ph between 6.5 to 7.5. An ideal soil mix for Clematis 'Walenburg' includes equal parts of garden soil, compost or well-rotted manure, and perlite or vermiculite to enhance drainage.
RepottingThe Clematis 'Walenburg' should ideally be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish the soil and provide space for root growth; it is less frequent than many other potted plants because they have a deep root system.
Humidity & MistingClematis 'Walenburg' prefers outdoor conditions with moderate ambient humidity and does not require any special humidity adjustments, making them quite adaptable to average garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, cool temperatures, and ample airflow for indoor Clematis.
Outdoor
Plant in fertile, well-drained soil, full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Walenburg', commonly known as Viticella Clematis, begins its life as a seed, which, after germination, develops into a young seedling with a small root system and a few leaves. As the plant matures, it enters a vegetative stage, characterized by rapid growth of stems and leaves, utilizing support from structures or other plants to climb. The next stage is the flowering phase, where it produces distinctive purple or violet flowers typically from midsummer to early fall, attracting pollinators and adding aesthetic value to gardens. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, which are fluffy, plume-like seed heads that release seeds for dispersal. During the onset of winter or in response to adverse conditions, the Clematis 'Walenburg' may enter a period of dormancy, where growth ceases and the plant conserves energy. Finally, with the return of favorable conditions, the plant breaks dormancy and resumes growth, completing its annual cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Clematis 'Walenburg' is best propagated by softwood cuttings, which is the most popular method. This is generally done in spring or early summer, when the plant's new growth is still soft and green. A grower will take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) from a healthy stem, just below a leaf node, and remove the leaves from the lower half. The cut end is then dipped in rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of successful root development. The cutting is planted in a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite, ensuring that the leafless part is buried. The pot should be placed in a warm, bright area but out of direct sunlight, and kept moist. Roots usually develop within a few weeks to a month, after which the new Clematis plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before transplanting.
