Clematis 'Pink Flamingo'
alpine clematis (group 1) (syn. Clematis alpina Pink Flamingo)
This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
- Position: Full sun or partial shade
- Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well drained soil
- Rate of growth: Fast
- Flowering period: April to May
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
Semi-double, pale pink early spring flowers with deep pink veins and creamy centres and mid-green leaves. This lovely clematis is perfect for a north- or east-facing site, grown on its own or allowed to scramble through a strong shrub or tree. The delicate flowers of 'Pink Flamingo' are followed by highly decorative, fluffy seedheads.
Clematis are happiest when their roots are kept cool and moist, so try to plant them where that 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. Pruning is not essential but you can remove any dead or weak growth in early summer to encourage strong new growth. Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the plant - again avoiding the immediate crown.
- Humans: Skin irritant; Pets: Harmful if eaten