Clematis Victoria (Late Large-Flowered Clematis)

A sterling performer, Clematis 'Victoria' is a strong-growing large-flowered hybrid, which produces a profusion of rosy lavender flowers, 6 in. across (15 cm), adorned with rose-pink centers and surrounding a central boss of white filaments, and pale purplish-brown anthers. Well-formed, the blooms are composed of 4 to 6 broad overlapping tepals, of a reddish lilac or deep reddish mauve color, with deeply-grooved midribs, which gradually pale out as the flower ages, leaving the sepals to fade attractively through soft lavender-blues. Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, this showy, vigorous clematis variety is durable and ideal for meandering over arbors and pergolas or rambling through shrubs and climbing roses.

• Thrives in moist, well-drained soils, in full sun. Ideally, Clematis prefer having their 'heads in the sun and their feet in the shade'. Keep the roots cool and shaded by other plants or add a layer of pebbles or flat stones at the base. Afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer areas.
• Hardy to zones 5-10, it is incredibly free-flowering and can quickly grow up to 10-13 ft. long (300-390 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.