Written by Rona Wheeldon
July 24, 2017
In this month’s Product Profile, we’re taking a look at clematis. A relative newcomer to the cut flower industry, this beautiful bloom with its quirky, wayward stems is becoming a firm favourite for loose, natural designs.
But how to pronounce it? Klee-mah-tis or klee-muh-tis? No matter which way, 'Star River' (above) with its pale lilac petals is one of the most sought-after varieties.
Background
From the Ranunculaceae family, the word clematis is derived from the Greek word ‘klematis’ which means vine or climbing plant.
This well-known garden flower became available as a cut flower in 2006 and the first variety was 'Blue Pirouette'. This was followed by 'Inspiration' in 2011 and 'Star River' in 2012. Three years later, 'Amazing London', 'Amazing Geneva' and 'Amazing Oslo' appeared on the scene. Then in 2016, 'Amazing Toronto' was introduced.
Mainly grown in Tanzania, Africa and available via the Dutch auctions, cut clematis can be found in soft lilac, deep violet blue and hot pinks hues. And there are usually 3-4 flowers per stem. It's available in wraps of 10 stems, in differing lengths, all year round.
Types
Cut Flowers
Star River
Blue Pirouette
Amazing London
Amazing Geneva
Amazing Oslo
Amazing Toronto
Amazing Rome
Inspiration
All of the varieties above are grown in Africa. However for a period of 4-6 weeks in July/August, Dutch grown clematis is available at Nine Elms. It's Blue Pirouette, but simply labelled as Clematis. And as you can see from the photo below, it has larger flower heads than the varieties from Tanzania.
Dutch Grown Large-Headed Clematis
Foliage
In the autumn months, you'll find fluffy clematis seedheads also fondly known as 'Old Man's Beard' at the foliage wholesalers.
Plants
Whilst in the spring and summer months, clematis plants are available to order from the plant wholesalers at the Flower Market. If there's a particular variety that you require, like Clematis montana, then it's advisable to order it. How about these 6ft beauties, which are perfect for adding instant colour at a height?
General Advice
It's best to buy cut clematis when the flowers are in closed bud. Strip the foliage below the water line and cut the stems at an angle. In the right conditions, the flowers can last 10-12 days.
Design Inspiration
Clematis is ideal for adding a sense of movement to designs and perfectly suits relaxed hand-tied bouquets and vase arrangements. It's also ideal for trailing designs, like shower bouquets and looks wonderful spilling over the sides of containers, such as urns. Plus, due to its long-lasting nature, it's a great choice for contract work.
Here are some examples of gorgeous designs featuring clematis…
(Source: By Appointment Only Design)
(Source: Amanda Austin Flowers)
(Source: Blue Sky Flowers)
(Source: McQueens)
(Source: Larry Walshe)
(Source: The Flower Appreciation Society)
(Source: Simon NIckell Design)
(Source: JamJar Flowers)
(Source: Rebel Rebel)
(Source: Scarlet & Violet)
Your Designs
We'd love to see photos of arrangements that you've made using clematis from the Flower Market at New Covent Garden Market. Simply send an email to info@cgma.co.uk, stating your company name and website address. Or if you prefer, you could post your photo on Instagram or Twitter and tag us with @MarketFlowers. We'll then upload your photos into this section.
I hope you've enjoyed reading this month's Product Profile Report. Please do ask away below if you have any questions or would like to make any general comments. As always, we'd love to hear from you…
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