Clematis recta ‘Purpurea'
A tall, herbaceous clematis valued as much for its darkly flushed foliage as for its airy summer flowers. Slender stems rise through neighbouring plants or light supports, carrying broad panicles of small, white, lightly scented flowers in mid to late summer. The rich stem and leaf colour persists longer than usual for this form, and cutting back spent panicles can prompt a second, lighter flush. Best placed where its height and open habit can be supported naturally.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun
Moisture: average
Soil: well-drained garden soils
Hardiness zone: 3
Maintenance: moderate
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 200
Spread (cm): 60
Habit: tall, open clump
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: July–Aug
Seasonal interest: summer flowering; dark foliage; silvery seedheads
Foliage: reddish-brown to dark green
Flower: white
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: pollinators
Deer/Rabbit resistance: moderate
Habitat: perennial borders; shrub planting; informal supports; back of border
Features: dark-flushed foliage; tall herbaceous stems; fragrant white flowers; repeat bloom with cutting back
Notes: foliage and stems emerge with a deep reddish-brown flush that largely persists through summer; tall, slender stems require support; large panicles of small, four-petalled flowers carry a light vanilla scent; cutting back flowered panicles encourages a later, lighter rebloom from lower nodes