A striking large-flowered clematis, Chevalier produces velvety purple, star-shaped blooms up to 6in (15cm) across, each set off by bright yellow anthers. As the flowers mature, the deep purple softens to a lovely lavender-blue, and it's not unusual to see single, semi-double and even fully double blooms appearing together on the same plant. This Raymond Evison introduction flowers in early summer, with a further flush in late summer into autumn.
A compact, deciduous climber, Chevalier typically reaches 4-6ft (120-180cm), making it a good choice for patio containers as well as borders, trellises and obelisks in smaller gardens. It's happiest in moist, well-drained soil, in full sun to part shade, with its roots kept cool — underplanting with low-growing perennials or a mulch of pebbles at the base works well. Deadheading after the first flush of blooms encourages further flowering.
Pruning group 2 is recommended to preserve the double flowers on older growth, though group 3 offers a simpler, lower-maintenance option if preferred. As with all clematis, the foliage and sap can cause skin irritation, so gloves are worth wearing when pruning or handling.
Each plant is hand-selected before dispatch.
