Clematis heracleifolia 'Cassandra'
clematis (group 3)
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
- Position: Full sun or partial shade
- Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well drained soil
- Rate of growth: Average
- Flowering period: July to September
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
‘Cassandra’ showcases rich deep blue hyacinth-shaped flowers with a strong scent, blooming late summer. This non-climbing herbaceous perennial forms an open bush, ideal for sunny borders or threading through shrubs like roses and philadelphus. With its jagged-toothed dark green leaves and petite fragrant flowers, this lovely clematis adds elegance to any garden setting.
Clematis are happiest when their roots are kept cool and moist, so try to plant them where the base of the plants will be lightly shaded by other, lower-growing species. Otherwise, use a clematis root protector, or top-dress the rootball (avoiding the immediate crown), with a generous layer of shingle or pebbles. In early spring cut back the previous year's stems to a pair of strong buds about 15-20cm (6-8in) above ground-level growth (leaving it to overwinter) and apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the plant - again avoiding the immediate crown.
- Humans: Skin allergen; Pets: Harmful if eaten