This unusual cultivar, which is rarely seen in garden centres, is well worth growing. Clematis ‘Piilu’ bears opulent double blooms in late spring and a second flush of single flowers in autumn, providing two completely different displays each year. Wide sepals with a central mauve pink bar that fades out to paler pink with gently frilled margins characterise the eye-catching blooms. Because of its compact habit, this early-blooming clematis is ideal for growing in patio containers. Height: 2 m (6′). Spread: 1 m (3′). Pruning group: 2.
Growing Information
When planting clematis, choose a position in sun or semi-shade and plant the climber deeply in moist, fertile, well drained soil. Position the top of the rootball at a depth of 7.5cm (3″) below soil level, to encourage new shoots to form from the base of the plant. Clematis dislike soils that are particularly wet or dry. Such soils can be improved by the addition of plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost. When growing clematis in patio containers use a soil based compost such as John Innes No.3. Train clematis plants onto a suitable support such as trellis, wires or a freestanding climbing frame.
