Clematis Honora (Late Large-Flowered Clematis)

A fascinating climber, Clematis 'Honora' is a large-flowered variety that produces a profusion of large, up to 6 in. wide (15 cm), velvety, plum-magenta flowers with a prominent burgundy bar through the center of each sepal. Opening from elegantly pointed, slender buds, the dark and dramatic blooms are burgundy at first. As they mature, the edges of the lightly crimped sepals lighten, making the central bars become prominent. The rosy petioles and gray undersides of the unfurling sepals provide additional complimentary details. Blooming from early to mid-summer, with a second flush from late summer to early fall, 'Honora' flowers from the ground up. Its wonderfully long season and delightful parade of color make it an interesting companion in plant combinations. This clematis is best trained on arbors, fences, walls, or grown over or through evergreen hedges.

• Thrives in moist, well-drained soils, in part shade. While sun tolerant, the best flower color is obtained in part shade. Avoid the direct, hot sun. Keep the roots cool and shaded by other plants or add a layer of pebbles or flat stones at the base.
• Hardy, this clematis is incredibly free-flowering and can quickly grow up to 10-13 ft. long (300-390 cm).
• Excellent choice for trellis and can be trained to climb a wall, trellis, fence, or arbor. Combines beautifully with shrubs.
• 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.