Overview
Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include climbers, walls, fences, obelisks, pergolas, trees, containers and mixed borders.
About
Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' is a deciduous climbing cultivar within the Clematis genus, part of the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. This climber typically reaches heights of 2.5 to 4 metres with a spread of 1 to 1.5 metres, taking between two to five years to reach its full size. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, preferring moist but well-drained conditions. Its season of interest spans summer, autumn, and winter, making it a versatile choice for different garden aspects and exposures.
About the genus
Clematis is a genus of about 380 species within the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Their garden hybrids and cultivars have been popular among gardeners, beginning with Clematis 'Jackmanii', a garden staple since 1862. More cultivars are being produced constantly, mainly of Chinese and Japanese origin.
Wikipedia contributors, "Clematis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clematis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clematis
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Climber Wall Shrub
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Climbers, walls, fences, obelisks, pergolas, trees, containers, mixed borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL)
- Cultivation
- Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Provide support for climbing. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots in winter.
- Pruning
- Prune in late winter or early spring before growth starts. Remove dead or weak stems and cut back remaining stems to 30-60 cm to encourage vigorous flowering.
- Propagation
- Seed, cuttings, layering, division
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Snails, Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildew, Clematis wilt
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL)?
Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Provide support for climbing. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots in winter.
Where is the best place to plant Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL)?
Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) need?
Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL)?
Prune in late winter or early spring before growth starts. Remove dead or weak stems and cut back remaining stems to 30-60 cm to encourage vigorous flowering.
How big does Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) grow?
Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) hardy in the UK?
Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL) has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Clematis 'Generał Sikorski' (EL)?
Seed, cuttings, layering, division.
More in the Clematis genus
- Clematis 'Fukuzono' (I)

- Clematis douglasiiChaparral Clematis

- Clematis stans

- Clematis × eriostemonClematis

- Clematis × jouiniana

- Clematis 'Edward Prichard'clematis 'Edward Prichard'
- Clematis 'Fairydust' (Vt)
- Clematis 'Herbert Johnson' (EL)