Clematis Ville de Lyon: History, Characteristics & Cultivation

Clematis ‘Ville de Lyon’ is a classic variety that has adorned gardens for over a century. It was bred by the French nurseryman François Morel, who introduced it around 1899. The cultivar was named after the French city of Lyon, a nod perhaps to the city’s significance in horticulture or simply as a tribute. This clematis quickly became popular due to its vibrant flowers and robust growth, making it a staple in both European and North American gardens.

Characteristics

  • Flowers: ‘Ville de Lyon’ boasts large, circular flowers that can measure up to 6 inches (15 cm) across. The color is a striking carmine red, with the edges of the tepals (a term used when sepals and petals are indistinguishable) often appearing slightly lighter or with a silvery sheen on the underside. Each flower has 6 to 8 overlapping tepals, and the center features a contrasting boss of creamy yellow to light brown anthers.
  • Growth Habit: This clematis is known for its vigorous climbing ability, reaching heights of 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters). It’s not overly rampant, making it manageable in a garden setting.
  • Bloom Time: It blooms profusely from late spring to early summer on old wood, with a potential second, less profuse flowering in late summer or early autumn on new growth.
  • Foliage: The leaves are mid-green, providing a lush backdrop to the bright flowers. They are typically divided into three leaflets.
  • Pruning Group: Belongs to Pruning Group 3 (or Group C), which means it should be pruned hard in late winter or early spring down to a pair of strong buds about 12 inches (30 cm) from the ground.

Cultivation

  • Sunlight: Prefers full sun but will tolerate light shade. However, for the best flowering, at least six hours of sunlight is ideal.
  • Soil: Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Adding organic matter at planting time can benefit its growth.
  • Watering: Needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it can tolerate some drought but performs best with consistent moisture.
  • Planting: Plant it so that the base is slightly below the soil line to encourage more shoots to grow from the base. Make sure the roots are shaded or mulched to keep them cool.
  • Support: Provide sturdy support like trellises, arbors, or walls for it to climb. Its vigorous nature requires strong structures.
  • Mulching: Mulch around the plant to retain moisture, reduce weed growth, and keep the roots cool.
  • Fertilization: Feed with a general-purpose fertilizer in spring when new growth starts, and possibly a bloom booster after the first flush of flowers to encourage the second bloom.
  • Diseases: While ‘Ville de Lyon’ can be susceptible to common clematis ailments like clematis wilt or powdery mildew, it is generally considered quite hardy. Good air circulation, proper watering techniques, and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent these issues.
  • Winter Care: Its pruning regime simplifies winter care, but in very cold regions, additional mulch around the base can provide extra protection.

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