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​Clematis 'Lime Close' is Serious Black™

Mar 24, 2015

Clematis r. SERIOUS BLACK Clematis 'Lime Close' is also known as Serious Black™. This remarkable Clematis is not only free-standing and upright, reaching 4 to 6 feet tall, it has striking dark purple, near-black, foliage that matures to deep olive green. 

In late spring to early summer, nickel sized antique ivory colored blossoms appear on previous year's growth, followed by a second round flowers in midsummer on the new deep purple foliage. Midsummer flowers may be smaller and single blooms, rather than double. Silvery seed heads appear in fall. Unlike non-vining Clematis Serious Black™ does not a need a trellis or structure to support its growth.

'Serious Black' is a Group II Clematis for pruning purposes, as it flowers on both old wood and new wood. Perform a light pruning clean-up in the fall and another in the spring, but do not cut down below the buds (except perhaps the first year, to develop a bushier plant).

Zones 3 to 9.

Clematis r. SERIOUS BLACK bare rootClematis can be grown in full sun or light shade, but its base and roots must be completely shaded. You may need to plant something directly in front of its rootball to keep it cool and shaded. A thick layer of mulch will also help to keep the soil moist. Bush Clematis prefers to be grown in average, well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. Adding lime to the soil will help to provide these conditions if your soil is naturally acidic.

When planting clematis, it is important to plant it 3" deeper than it was in the original pot. Bury the first set of entire leaves to encourage the production of strong shoots from below soil level and to discourage clematis wilt.