Clematis 'SPIKY'

Clematis 'Spiky' (cultivar name 'Zospi') was bred by Dutch breeder Wim Snoeijer in 2000, selected in 2006 and introduced as a novelty by the J. van Zoest nursery in 2009. Its nodding, semi-double flowers reach 6-8 cm and appear in a strong blue; four lance-shaped, long-pointed and slightly twisted sepals give them a distinctly pointed form.

'Spiky' flowers from April to May, with occasional repeat blooms in summer, and reaches a height of around 300 cm. This makes it ideal for trellises, pergolas and obelisks, and it also thrives in a large container. As an Atragene hybrid it grows well in almost any aspect, from full sun to semi-shade – the only requirement is keeping the root area and base of the plant cool and shaded, for example with low companion planting or a layer of gravel.

This variety is reliably winter-hardy (zone 5, down to about -28 °C) and copes with harsh winters without protection. Decorative, fluffy silver seed heads form after flowering and remain on the plant for a long time. For vigorous growth, cut 'Spiky' back to about 100 cm in June; the sap can irritate the skin, so gloves are recommended when pruning.