Clematis Gipsy Queen (Late Large-Flowered Clematis)

Introduced in 1877, Clematis 'Gipsy Queen' is a vigorous deciduous climber which gets covered with a profusion of large, 5-6 in. (12-14 cm), remarkably velvety, violet-purple flowers with dark red stamens. On the first opening, the blossoms can be an intense dark red, before rapidly changing to deep violet. Blooming from midsummer to early fall, this late-flowering clematis can make a memorable floral show, thanks to its abundant blossoms and depth of color. It is ideal to cover arbors or fences or trellises and is a lovely companion for white, pink, or apricot climbing roses.

• Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its noteworthy qualities.
• Thrives in moist, well-drained soils, in part shade. The exquisite blooms hold their color best in dappled shade. They will fade in full sun. Keep the roots cool and shaded by other plants or add a layer of pebbles or flat stones at the base.
• Can quickly grow up to 10-12 ft. long (300-360 cm).
• This Clematis belongs to the third group of Clematis – a group including Clematis which flower in late summer on growth made in that season. They should be pruned in late winter or early spring and require 'hard pruning': simply cut back the stems to a pair of strong buds about 1ft. (30 cm) above ground level before growth begins in early spring.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.