Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Clematis 'Niobe' for Inspiration


I'm working on a major landscape project for a dear friend this year. It's a 1910 two story home with a wrap around porch. All white with limited black trim. She made a significant investment of lime green adirondeck chairs for the porch. So when it comes to the color palette, the green is my jumping off point. After about 30 minutes, I knew burgundy would be partner in crime with the green for a smashing combo. And I immediately thought of Clematis 'Niobe' as an plant to provide inspiration for the finished project. I've always wanted to use 'Niobe' because I love the richness of burgundy in a mass of large 4' bloom. I've read on numerous occasions it is THE best clematis on the market.
Niobe was hybridized in Poland. However, like all burgundy-red clematis, it has the American native Clematis texensis in its parentage. This hybrid entered the American market in 1975 and was quickly adopted and remains one of the higest rated clematis in the world. If there was a Clematis Hall of Fame, Niobe would be a founding member according to one blogger I found. It also is an excellent cut flower.
And the other great thing is the burgundy plants will go well with a glass of burgundy on the porch with my clients among the period piece boston ferns.

7 comments:

Shady Gardener said...

I have this clematis and it's very striking! And mine is in a very shady spot (not its ideal situation)! Good choice to go with the lime chairs.

Patrick said...

I don't think people think about clematis in shade. I have a Rogucci on an arch in full shade. it doesn't seem to effect amount of blooms. It just seems to restrain the growth which is a good benefit in my book.

Thanks for your comment

Debbie said...

Patrick, that sounds like a pretty combination! I have other clematis, but now think I will have to try Niobe, an oldie but goodie!

Patrick said...

Debbie,
On another project I plan to combine Niobe with my favorite the silky dark blue bell-shaped Rooguchi. Google it and just imagine an archway with one on either side. WOW, huh?

Thanks for taking the time to comment!

Debbie said...

Patrick,

The combo of Niobe and Rogucci would be beautiful! The contrast of the bell and star shaped blooms would look great! Do they bloom at
similar times?
I love blue/purple and cranberry/wine colors combined!

Just wondering: is there a way for readers to post pictures in our comments?

Anonymous said...

Patrick,
This sounds wonderful! Keep us posted on your plans please.
Jillian

Kerri said...

I've thought about planting Niobe but wasn't sure of the true color. I've seen it pictured as looking more 'red' in some photos. I'm happy to know it's a burgundy red. If I can decide on a good spot for it I just might try it.
It will be beautiful with the lime green chairs.
Thanks for stopping by and saying hello :)