Clematis The Countess of Wessex (Early Large-Flowered Clematis)
Perfect for the patio, Clematis ‘The Countess of Wessex’ is a compact, deciduous climber which produces masses of large, gleaming white flowers, 5-6 in. (12-15 cm), adorned with a pale pink stripe and a crown of deep red stamens. The ruffled edges on the petals add a romantically feminine finish.
Perfect for the patio, Clematis 'The Countess of Wessex' is a compact, deciduous climber which produces masses of large, gleaming white flowers, 5-6 in. (12-15 cm), adorned with a pale pink stripe and a crown of deep red stamens. The ruffled edges on the petals add a romantically feminine finish. Blooming in late spring to early summer and again in late summer to early fall, you can count on two flower shows a year. This large-flowered Clematis is perfect for containers, small trellises, or obelisks.
- Thrives in moist, well-drained soils, in bright shade. This Clematis is best enjoyed when planted in north, west, or northwest facing locations.
- Hardy, it is incredibly free-flowering and can quickly grow up to 3-4 ft. long (90-120 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.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 4 – 9 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 1 – 9 |
| Climate Zones | 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A2, A3 |
| Plant Type | Climbers |
| Plant Family | Clematis |
| Exposure | Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Late)Fall |
| Height | 3' – 4' (90cm – 120cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 24″ (60cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
| Garden Uses | Arbors, Pergolas, Trellises, Beds and Borders |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |









