Clematis 'Westerplatte' (Clematis) - flowering climber - 11 cm pot - Height 40 cm - Set of 2

Clematis Westerplatte (Clematis Westerplatte) produces large, crimson-red flowers with intense purple highlights, accented by cream stamens that create a striking contrast. Each flower measures several centimeters in diameter and opens generously along the entire length of the stems. This deep red hue is particularly luminous in the sun and stands out distinctly from typical mauve or blue clematis. It brings a touch of warmth and intensity rarely found in flowering garden climbers.

The Westerplatte Clematis begins to flower in May and continues to produce its large, bright red flowers until'September. This nearly five-month-long repeat flowering is a major advantage over many other single-flowering climbers. The first flowers appear in late spring on the new shoots following winter pruning, then successive waves renew themselves throughout the'summer. To maintain this generous display, regularly remove faded flowers to stimulate new flower-bearing shoots.

Westerplatte clematis is known for its good resistance to diseases compared to o'ther cultivars of clematis. It is particularly resistant to o'idium when well ventilated. The main risk remains clematis wilt, a fungal disease that can cause shoots to suddenly turn brown and die: if this happens, immediately prune the affected stems down'to the ground and the plant will regrow from its healthy roots. Good air circulation around the foliage, well-drained soil and a'voidance of watering the leaves effectively limit health problems.

Yes, the Westerplatte Clematis is a perfectly hardy climber that easily withstands French winters, even in regions with a pronounced continental climate. It is deciduous: its leaves fall in 'autumn, but the stems and roots survive frosts without any special protection in the vast majority of situations. In areas with very cold winters, a thick layer of mulch at the base in November is sufficient to protect the plant. In spring, vigorous new growth emerges from the base of the plant after annual pruning.

The Westerplatte clematis s'clings to its support with its twining petioles: it needs a'fine-mesh support, such as a trellis, wire fence, pergola, or arch. Smooth, wide supports (raw wood, bare wall) are not suitable for it directly because it cannot attach to'them without help. Plan for the support at the time of planting, before the plant becomes too large. A trellis fixed at least 5 cm from'a wall also allows good air circulation around the foliage, which limits the risk of fungal diseases.

The Westerplatte clematis belongs to pruning group 3, which greatly simplifies its maintenance: every late 'winter, between late February and early March, cut all the stems back severely to about 20 to 30 cm above the ground, just above a 'pair of well-swollen buds. This hard pruning may seem drastic, but it is essential: it guarantees a vigorous plant, an airy structure, and abundant flowering on the new shoots of the season. Without this annual pruning, the clematis becomes bare at the base and flowers less and less.

The Westerplatte clematis can easily be grown in a pot on a sunny terrace or balcony, provided you choose a container of'at least 30 to 40 litres to allow the roots to develop well. Use a rich, well-draining potting mix and water regularly, as potting soil dries out faster than'soil in the ground. A stake or trellis attached to the pot or wall is essential from the start. In a pot, top mulching and spring applications of'slow-release fertilisers make all the difference in maintaining generous flowering throughout the'summer.