Clematis patens Fujimusume

Clematis 'Fujimusume' is a climbing plant that boasts a beautiful flowering with soft and bright hues. Its large single flowers first bloom in the middle of spring and display a radiant light blue colour, complemented by a centre of cream stamens. It then rewards us with a second flowering in late summer. It is suitable for containers and will perfectly cover trellises and columns.

This variety was developed in 1952. It comes from Japan, as its name suggests. It is the result of hybridisation work by Seejuuroo Arai, and pays tribute to a Kabuki dance called the Wisteria Maiden. From May to June, it produces large, single flowers, measuring about 15cm (6in) in diameter. The flowers bloom on the previous year's branches. These flowers consist of 6 to 8 obovate and acuminate tepals that overlap and are slightly recurved. They fully open into a star shape, revealing a centre of pale-yellow, almost cream-coloured, stamens. They perfectly complement the fresh blue of the lightly veined tepals. From September to October, a second flowering emerges from the current year's stems. The deciduous green leaves are composed of 3 to 5 leaflets. They are carried by voluble stems that twine around their support. It can reach a height of up to 2m (7ft),

Like most of its relatives, 'Fujimusume' prefers light, deep, moist, and fertile soil that is ideally neutral. It appreciates a sunny or partially shaded exposure, with its base always in the shade. It is resistant to cold and does not fear frost, even if it is severe. However, it does not like stagnant moisture, so the substrate must be well-draining and watering should be moderate (if necessary during the first year). It can be grown in a container if it is large enough (minimum 60cm (24in) in diameter).

The colours displayed by 'Fujimusume' perfectly embody a romantic spirit. They reflect freshness, innocence, and a certain nostalgia. They will bring light around a window with a trellis, on a column in a rustic-looking flower bed, or on the trunk of a tree with a wire mesh. Pair it with its relatives 'I Am Stanislaus' or 'Mme Lecoultre' for variety in colours or forms. It also works well with a climbing rose. It will look wonderful in a container with spring bulbs, or with grasses if grown in the middle of a flower bed.