Large-flowered Clematis
clematis patens
Also known as: ["Japanese Clematis","Large-flowered Clematis"]
Overview
A vigorous, deciduous climber known for its large, showy flowers that bloom in summer and early autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Clematis |
| Botanical Name: | Clematis patens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in garden, or large container with support
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter; cactus mix or loam-based potting soil works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); prefers morning sun and afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, every 7–10 days in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; adjust based on weather and soil type.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids prolonged frost; thrives in moderate climates.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize after pruning; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to a pair of healthy buds; remove any dead or damaged wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to encourage flowering and maintain shape; remove dead or weak growth annually.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before active growth; remove dead wood; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the root zone is moistened; avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, increasing to twice weekly in hot, dry conditions; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth or move containers indoors; avoid watering before cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, flowers fade quickly, and growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during active growth; water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicClematis patens is toxic to cats when ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic effects. The plant's irritant compounds can lead to severe discomfort and health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Clematis patens by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and systemic toxicity. The plant's compounds can cause significant distress and potential health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicClematis patens contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's irritant properties can lead to significant physiological discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Clematis patens be watered?
A: Water deeply once a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Clematis patens require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Q: How do I prune Clematis patens?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring, removing dead or weak stems and cutting back the remaining stems to encourage vigorous growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
