Clematis ‘Arabella’ is a highly favored variety known for its prolonged blooming season and vibrant color. Its adaptability and generous floral display make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking continuous visual interest.
Key Characteristics of Clematis ‘Arabella’
Clematis ‘Arabella’ is a semi-herbaceous perennial that scrambles rather than clings or vines, forming a bushy, mounding shape. Its stems do not twine around supports. It typically reaches 3 to 6 feet tall with a similar spread.
The flowers are a rich violet-blue, often appearing lavender or mauve with blue overtones, and feature prominent yellow anthers. These open-faced, star-shaped blooms, typically 3 to 4 inches across, appear profusely from late spring or early summer through early autumn, offering a long period of color. ‘Arabella’ is hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 9.
Planting Your ‘Arabella’
Selecting an appropriate planting site is important for Clematis ‘Arabella’. This plant flourishes in locations that receive full sunlight for at least six hours daily, which encourages abundant flowering. ‘Arabella’ benefits from having its roots kept cool and shaded, achievable by planting low-growing perennials nearby or applying mulch around the base.
The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter to support healthy growth. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the planting hole improves drainage and fertility.
When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough for the crown to be level with or slightly below the soil surface. After placing the plant, backfill with soil, gently firming it around the roots, and water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Ongoing Care for ‘Arabella’
Consistent moisture is important for Clematis ‘Arabella’, particularly during its first few growing seasons and dry periods. Deep, regular watering helps establish an extensive root system, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Applying a thick layer of mulch around the plant’s base helps retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilization supports vigorous growth and continuous floral display. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring as new growth emerges.
Since ‘Arabella’ does not self-climb, providing support is beneficial for a more upright display. This could include a low trellis, stakes, or allowing it to scramble through other shrubs. Monitor regularly for common garden pests and diseases, though ‘Arabella’ is generally considered a low-maintenance plant.
Pruning Clematis ‘Arabella’
Pruning is important for Clematis ‘Arabella’ to ensure a robust display of blooms each year. ‘Arabella’ falls into Pruning Group 3, also known as the “hard prune” group. Plants in this group flower on new wood that develops in the current growing season.
The recommended time for pruning ‘Arabella’ is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This involves cutting back all stems severely to a pair of strong buds, typically about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) above ground level. This hard pruning encourages vigorous new shoots from the base, resulting in an abundance of flowers later in the season.
Creative Uses for ‘Arabella’ in Your Garden
Clematis ‘Arabella’s’ scrambling, non-clinging nature offers versatility in garden design. It excels as a vibrant groundcover, creating a carpet of violet-blue blooms. Its habit also makes it suitable for weaving through and complementing other plants, such as shrubs or roses, extending their season of interest.
‘Arabella’ performs well in containers, where its cascading stems can spill gracefully over the edges, adding a flowing element to patios or balconies. It can also be trained along low fences or trellises, though it will require tying to supports. Companion plants that offer contrasting textures or colors, such as hostas or lavender, can enhance its visual appeal while ensuring adequate air circulation.