Overview
Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' is a deciduous shrub in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders and shrub borders. It is native to Eastern and Southern and Mid Europe.
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
In the garden
Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' belongs to the Ranunculaceae and the genus Clematis and is native to Eastern, Southern and Mid Europe. As a deciduous shrub growing to approximately 1.5 m it offers a herbaceous-flowering presence rather than a climbing habit typical of many clematis species. Choose a sunny position with full sun exposure and a soil that holds moisture without waterlogging; it will tolerate sandy, loamy and clay soils provided they are moist but well drained. In UK hardiness terms it is H7 (fully hardy) and also corresponds to USDA zones 3–7, so it withstands a wide range of winter conditions. Planting into a border where roots are slightly protected by neighbouring plants will suit its moisture needs while keeping the crown free-draining. Use it in mixed borders or shrub borders at mid-height, where its 1.5 m stature fills the centre or rear of a bed. Its long flowering season makes it useful for extending blossom through late spring into late summer. Expect blooms from May to September.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clematis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- Sunny
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Deciduous shrub
- Height
- 1.5 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, Shrub borders
- Native to
- Eastern, Southern and Mid Europe
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist but well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; plant in full sun for best flowering.
- Pruning
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape; remove dead or weak stems.
- Propagation
- Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis'?
Prefers moist but well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; plant in full sun for best flowering.
Where is the best place to plant Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis'?
Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' need?
Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis'?
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape; remove dead or weak stems.
How big does Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' grow?
Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' reaches a height of 1.5 m.
Is Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' hardy in the UK?
Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Clematis recta 'Foliis Purpureis'?
Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Clematis genus
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