Clematis texensis Etoile Rose

Clematis texensis 'Etoile Rose' is an old hybrid that has lost none of its charm. Obtained by Victor Lemoine in 1903, this vigorous but moderately growing climber has abundant, prolonged, absolutely delightful pendulous bells that are open and slightly fringed, reminiscent of small, almost red tulips with pale pink margins. It is a hardy variety, easy to grow in any well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade.

Clematis belong to the Ranunculaceae family. They are found in Europe, the Himalayas, China, Australia, and North and Central America. The variety 'Etoile Rose', selected in France, is likely a cross between a clematis from the Texensis group and a C. viticella. Such a pedigree means this plant is hardy, drought-tolerant, disease-resistant, and floriferous. It is a climbing herbaceous plant that will reach approximately 3m (10ft) high, with a spread of 1m (3ft). This clematis flowers in waves from July to August until October if the soil remains moist. It bears pendant flowers on long peduncles, more or less inclined towards the ground. Each flower is composed of 4 thick, wavy petals, fused at the base. It measures 6 to 7cm (2 to 3in) in length and opens in two stages. The heart of the flower is dark pink, with the edges becoming pale pink as it blooms. The outer petals are almost red. The flowers appear on the current year's shoots. The smooth leaves are divided into 3 elliptical to lanceolate,  light green leaflets with a hint of olive. The foliage dries up and dies in winter. This clematis clings to its support or host plant using petioles transformed into tendrils.

Clematis viticella 'Etoile Rose' pairs easily with many other blooms in white, pink, red, blue, all shades of mauve, even purple, creating beautiful compositions with its pink bell-shaped flowers. Plant it with a climbing rose like 'Paul's Scarlet Climber' with cherry-red flowers or with the white flowers of the Climbing Iceberg rose. Also, consider letting it climb on an evergreen shrub like 'Rubra' strawberry tree. On a trellis, fence, wall, and other supports, combine it with other clematis for a beautiful palette of colours.

Tips: Avoid excessive fertiliser application that can stimulate foliage at the expense of flowers. Do not mulch, to avoid excessive moisture that may promote clematis wilt. Prune in March.