In The Garden Now …. Clematis ‘Etoile Violette’

Clematis: Queen of the Flowering Vines

Text and photo by Victoria Gilleland

Clematis: Queen of The Flowering Vines … A perfect name for this truly stunning family of climbers. Clematis flowers come in an amazing array of colors including white, cream, red, blue, purple, pink and multicolored combinations of these colors.

The flowers are just as varied in size as they are in color ... and can be anywhere from less than an inch in diameter to six inches across. The vines climb anywhere from a few feet to 40 feet or more. There are clematis varieties available to bloom throughout the year. 

The deep purple flowers of Clematis ‘Etoile Violette’ are a standout in the garden especially when grown along with another climbing clematis or climbing rose with contrasting flowers. In my photo this outstanding clematis is clambering up a large trellis along with Kiftsgate Rambling Rose. They put on quite an impressive show when they come into bloom at the same time each spring or early summer. An added bonus is a second round of blooms in late summer or fall. 

Clematis Etoile Violette is an easy to grow climber that is very forgiving in its cultural requirements. In my garden it blooms happily in part sun to shade and has been quite drought tolerant once established. Unlike most plants where the recommendation is to plant at the same level they were growing in their nursery pots, clematis flourish when planted several inches deeper. I typically plant mine two or three inches deeper and they've done very well. It is recommended that the roots be in shade. This clematis blooms on the current year’s growth so you can cut it back in spring and still have a bountiful flower show. 

Add some color to your garden with this long lived easy to grow climbing vine. Climb it on fences, trellises, lampposts and even through shrubs and trees. You won't be disappointed with the fabulous color added to your garden!

(Botanical Name: Clematis viticella ‘Etoile Violette’ )

Victoria Gilleland is the owner of Cottage Garden Designs, a Garden Design company specializing in Redesign of Residential Gardens, Garden Consultation and Coaching. She has been designing gardens in The Northwest for over 20 years.