Clematis 'INSPIRATION'

Clematis 'Inspiration' (cultivar code 'Zoin') was raised in 1993 by Dutch breeder Wim Snoeijer from a cross between 'Rosea' (Integrifolia Group) and 'Warszawska Nike', named in 1997 and introduced in 2000 by the Jan van Zoest nursery. Its 6–8 cm flowers open trumpet-shaped at first, then spread wide: four sepals in strong, dark pink with wavy edges and fine veining that fade slightly after opening, along with slightly twisted outer sepals and yellow stamens that provide a lovely contrast.

From June to September, 'Inspiration' shows an exceptionally long flowering period, with buds, open flowers and decorative fluffy seedheads often appearing on the plant at the same time. At around 200 cm, it belongs to the Integrifolia Group of herbaceous clematis with non-clinging stems: it leans against supports or threads its way through shrubs and perennials. This makes it perfect for herbaceous borders, for growing through low shrubs, or in containers on the patio — it does best in a sunny to semi-shaded spot with well-drained, not too dry soil.

'Inspiration' is reliably winter-hardy (zone 5, down to about -28.8 °C) and easy to grow in most German regions. In March, cut the plant back hard to about 25 cm so it resprouts densely and flowers freely in spring — a typical feature of pruning group 3. Thanks to its robust, semi-herbaceous growth habit, it is easy to care for and well suited to beginners too.