Clematis Piilu

A early-flowering, large-flowered clematis, Clematis Piilu is a deciduous, herbaceous perennial, self-clinging climber of average vigour. As it’s so narrow, it’s one of the best for small gardens and containers against a sunny wall. Tripartite, typical clematis leaves are mid-green. Masses of large, semi-double, wavy-edged flowers, pale mauve-pink with a deeper pink bar on each petal and golden stamens, are borne in June; these are followed in September by a second flush of usually single flowers. As a Group 2 clematis, any congested, dead or damaged stems should be pruned back in early spring to two healthy buds. Clematis Piilu likes a cool, spacious root-run but its head in the sun; flag-stones or a rich spring mulch over the roots will keep soil cool and moist.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: June and September
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 10’ (3m) Spread: 2’5” (75cm) in 2-5 years