Meet the Clematis viticella, a plant that's as charming as an Italian sonnet and as captivating as a Venetian sunset. Known by many names, including the Italian Leather Flower and the Purple Clematis, this plant is a true showstopper in any garden.
Clematis viticella
Partial To Full Sun
Can handle a mix of direct and bright light throughout the day.
High Water Needs
Requires frequent watering to maintain moist soil but doesn't tolerate standing water. Needs regular attention and good drainage. Best suited for dedicated indoor gardeners or outdoor spaces with intensive care.
Adaptable to Clay, Sand, Silt Loam
Thrives in clay, sand, and silt loam soils, showing great adaptability to different soil textures. Needs frequent watering. Requires good soil drainage.
Moderately Adaptable Soil pH
Thrives in neutral (pH 6.5-7.5) to alkaline (pH > 7.5) soil conditions.
Significant Safety Risks
Highly toxic if ingested, handle with extreme caution. Can cause skin irritation and highly toxic if ingested.
Safe for All Animals
No known safety risks to pets or livestock.
63%
Adaptability Score
70%
Safety Score
About Clematis viticella
Standing tall between 10 to 15 feet, and spreading out 3 to 5 feet wide, the Italian Clematis is a sight to behold. Its emerald leaves provide a stunning contrast to its violet flowers that bloom pre-winter and during the peak season. While the plant does produce fruits, their color remains a mystery wrapped in an enigma.
Did you know that the Italian Clematis is a favorite among bumblebees, lepidopterans, and colorful hummingbirds? So, if you're looking to attract these beautiful creatures to your garden, this plant is a must-have!
Also known as
Italian clematis
Italian leather flower
Italian leather-flower
Italian virgin's-bower
Purple clematis
Edibility
Despite its alluring beauty, the Italian Clematis is a toxic plant and is not edible.
Our design recommendations
The Italian Clematis is not just a pretty face. It's a versatile plant that can be used as a privacy screen, adding a touch of elegance and mystery to your garden. Its trailing nature makes it perfect for vertical gardens, stone walls, and even terraces. This plant is a versatile performer, thriving in planters, conservation land, terraces, stone walls, vertical gardens, and forests. So, whether you have a small urban garden or a sprawling rural landscape, the Italian Clematis can find a home.