Clematis Wisley Cream Clematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream' (C)
ABOUT
Wisley Cream is a type of clematis that is known for its unique flowering habits and visually striking appearance. The plant is like a soft-toned beacon in the garden, unfurling its creamy, bell-shaped flowers, which present a delicate aspect in the midst of colder months. These blossoms are subtly accented with hints of green on their tepal tips, emitting a light, pleasing fragrance that enhances its winter charm. The foliage of Wisley Cream is composed of dark green leaves, which are divided into leaflets giving them a somewhat feathery look. The leaves provide an attractive backdrop to the flowers, making them stand out even more prominently. The leaflets are not overly large, but they cluster in such a way as to create a lush, green canvas upon which the flowers can shine. Each flower hangs elegantly from the plant's stems, sometimes appearing to almost twinkle against the cool, crisp air of its blooming season. The insides of the flowers possess a silky texture, catching droplets of dew or rain, which can sometimes further accent their creaminess with a glistening effect. Unlike some of its more flamboyant relatives, Wisley Cream offers a more subdued and sophisticated visual experience. Its blossoms, though not vivid, draw the eye with their graceful simplicity and serene hue. The general impression of Wisley Cream is one of quiet beauty—a plant that doesn't demand attention with bright colors or bold patterns, but rather invites onlookers to appreciate the understated elegance it brings to the garden. It offers a sense of calm and a touch of floral beauty during a season when many other plants are dormant, thus providing a unique and valuable contrast within the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Wisley Cream Clematis, Winter-flowering Clematis, Clematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream'.
Common names
Clematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream'
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, which includes varieties like Clematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream', is known to be mildly poisonous to humans if ingested. Its toxicity is due to the presence of irritating glycosides. Symptoms from ingesting parts of the plant can include mouth irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in more severe cases, symptoms may lead to salivation, headaches, or even an upset stomach. Contact with the sap can potentially cause skin irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Clematis, including Clematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream', is toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. The plant contains irritating glycosides which can cause symptoms if ingested. These symptoms may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and at times oral irritation and pain. The severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the amount consumed and the sensitivity of the pet, but ingestion of clematis should be treated as a potential veterinary emergency.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Cream
Height
8 feet (2.44 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Winter Blooming: C. cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream' produces delicate cream-colored flowers during the winter, adding color to the garden in the colder months.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers provide a nectar source for bees and other pollinating insects when few other plants are in bloom.
- Evergreen Foliage: As an evergreen, it retains its leaves throughout the year, providing constant greenery and structure to gardens.
- Climbing Habit: With its climbing growth form, it is ideal for adding vertical interest to walls, trellises, or arbors.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for busy gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Clematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream' can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Long-Lived: This plant has the potential to be long-lived when properly situated and cared for, offering years of enjoyment.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, from traditional to contemporary, and in mixed borders or containers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream' can be used as a natural dye source. The petals can produce subtle shades of yellow or green, which can be used in textile and craft projects.
- The vine's structure is ideal for crafting living wreaths. Its flexible stems can be shaped around a frame to create a lush, decorative display.
- The dried seed heads provide unique textural elements for dried flower arrangements, bringing an interesting and wild look to the composition.
- This plant can be used as an educational tool. With its winter blooms, it provides an opportunity to teach about pollination and plant adaptations in the colder months.
- Photographers and artists often appreciate the 'Wisley Cream' for its aesthetic and use it as a subject to capture the beauty of nature in winter.
- Its vigorous climbing habit makes Clematis cirrhosa an excellent tool for creating natural privacy screens on balconies or in gardens.
- It serves as a natural habitat for insects during winter, providing shelter and potential nesting opportunities for various species.
- Due to its evergreen nature, the plant can be used in landscape design to offer visual interest and greenery throughout the year.
- The plant's stems can be used in basket weaving to add a unique, organic look, integrating well with other natural materials because of their flexibility and strength.
- Clematis cirrhosa can be incorporated in winter-themed event decorations, such as for weddings or seasonal celebrations, providing a fresh, live element to the decor.
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 the mind and intelligence due to its intricate and dynamic growth patterns, suggesting the blossoming of ideas and thoughts.
- Ingeniousness: The complex structure and climbing nature of the clematis signify resourcefulness and the ability to think outside the box, making one's way in the world with creative solutions.
- Artistic Inspiration: This plant is thought to symbolize the muses of art and creativity, inspiring those around it to pursue artistic endeavors and trust in their imaginative capacities.
- Spiritual Pursuit: The upward growth habit of the clematis reflects a quest for spiritual enlightenment, encouraging an ascent towards higher states of being and consciousness.
- Perseverance: With its ability to survive and even flourish in challenging conditions, the clematis represents determination and a strong will to overcome obstacles.
WaterClematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream', commonly referred to as Variegated Clematis, prefers to be watered thoroughly but infrequently, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water this plant every week with approximately 1 gallon of water per plant, tapering off in the fall and watering sparingly in winter. It is important to water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. If the weather is particularly dry, you may need to water more frequently. Always check the top inch of the soil; if it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water.
LightVariegated Clematis thrives best in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight a day but is also offered some protection from the scorching midday sun. Therefore, a location with morning sunlight and afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day is ideal. Avoid full shade as this will reduce flowering and potentially weaken the plant.
TemperatureVariegated Clematis is hardy in a range of temperatures and can survive in conditions as cold as 20°F during its dormant period. The ideal temperatures for active growth generally range from about 45°F to 80°F. Extreme heat can stress the plant, so providing some shade during the hottest part of the day is beneficial.
PruningFor healthy growth and to promote flowering, Variegated Clematis should be pruned in late winter or early spring, removing dead and weak stems and cutting back the plant to a set of strong buds around 6 inches above the ground. This type of clematis may also need a light pruning after the first flush of flowers to encourage a second bloom period. Pruning not only maintains a manageable size but also revitalizes the plant for future growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Fern-leaf Clematis is well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter. A combination of two parts garden soil, one part compost or well-rotted manure, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal. The optimal soil pH for this clematis should be slightly alkaline to neutral, around pH 7.0 to 7.5.
RepottingFern-leaf Clematis does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years. It's best to repot in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The plant should be repotted if it becomes root-bound or the soil quality deteriorates.
Humidity & MistingFern-leaf Clematis prefers moderate humidity. While it can tolerate a range of humidity levels, it thrives best when the humidity is around 50-70%. Avoid placing it in excessively dry environments, which may necessitate occasional misting to maintain adequate humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; keep soil moist but not soggy.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade; shelter from strong winds; mulch well.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream', commonly referred to as 'Wisley Cream' clematis, begins its life with seed germination, typically in spring where conditions of temperature and light are suitable for growth. Once germinated, the seedling grows into a young vine with characteristic leaf formation and begins to establish a root system. As the plant matures, it develops climbing or trailing stems which require support to help it ascend. Typically during late fall to early winter, 'Wisley Cream' clematis enters its flowering stage, producing creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers that bring an ornamental appeal to gardens during a time when few other plants are in bloom. After pollination, often by bees, the plant sets seed, which, when mature, can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, thereby completing its reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a period of dormancy during the colder winter months before resuming growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method of propagating Clematis cirrhosa 'Wisley Cream', commonly known as Winter Clematis, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is best carried out in late summer when the plant's new growth has begun to mature and harden slightly. To propagate, one should take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length, ensuring it contains at least two sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite to provide good drainage and moisture retention. The pot should be kept in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight to avoid wilting. With proper care, the cutting should root in a few weeks, after which it can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions and eventually planted out.
