Clematis Chevalier™
A Profusion of Purple
This Compact Flowering Vine is Perfect for Adding Vertical Interest to the Garden
Clematis Chevalier™ (Clematis ‘Evipo040’) is a type of perennial vine known for its large purple flowers and compact growth habit. Chevalier™ blooms abundantly from early summer through early fall, with single, semi-double, and double flowers together all on the same plant. Flowers are comprised of wavy, ruffled purple sepals surrounding yellow stamens, and can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. This low-maintenance vine will happily climb up trellises, fences, and mailbox posts, and is a great choice for gardeners looking to add vertical interest to the landscape.
Clematis Chevalier™ grows in zones 4 - 9, in full sun to part shade, and appreciates afternoon shade in the hotter southern zones. Clematis establishes deep roots and thrives in cool, moist, rich and well-draining soil. To maintain cool soil conditions, use mulch or plant low-growing shrubs or perennials to shade the base of the clematis vine. Chevalier™ blooms on new wood and belongs to pruning group 3 - prune back to 12 inches, in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Clematis are not a deer-resistant plant; according to Rutgers University’s List of Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance, clematis can be occasionally severely damaged by deer browsing.
How to Plant and Grow Clematis Chevalier™
Location: Select a planting site with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight. Clematis Chevalier™ prefers a location with at least 4 hours of sunlight per day, but it's beneficial to have some shade for the roots to stay cool.
Soil: Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, shredded leaves, or Leaf-gro®, to improve drainage and soil fertility.
Support: Clematis Chevalier™ is a climbing vine and will need support to grow upwards. Install a trellis, arbor, or other support structure near the plant at the time of planting, being careful not to damage the roots.
Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
Watering: Water the newly planted clematis thoroughly. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during periods of drought. Deep watering is preferable to encourage the development of a strong root system (Are you in a drought? Check the U.S. Drought Monitor). Clematis vines do not like soggy conditions - avoid overwatering.
Fertilization: Clematis is a heavy feeder and can be given a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, from spring through fall. Follow the instructions on the manufacturer’s label.
Diseases: Clematis may occasionally suffer from fungal diseases and viruses like leaf spot and powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation to minimize the risk of diseases, and practice good watering habits (see “How to Water your Plants” to brush up on your watering skills).
What are the Clematis Pruning Groups?
The clematis pruning groups categorize various clematis types according to their bloom time and specific pruning needs. Understanding which group your clematis belongs to is crucial for proper pruning to ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms.There are three main pruning groups:
Group 1: This early-flowering group of clematis plants do not require pruning. If desired, plants may be lightly shaped or trimmed back to control the size. Group 1 flowers on old wood (last year’s growth), and should be cut back immediately after flowering, when blooms are finished for the season. Pruning too late can result in the removal of next season's flowering wood.
Group 2: This clematis group blooms twice a season, first on old wood (last year’s growth) and again on the current season’s new growth. Pruning Group 2 clematis is recommended as a way to encourage healthy growth and abundant flower production. Prune in late winter or early spring by cutting each stem back to just above a pair of healthy buds. Remove dead or damaged wood and thin out the plant, as needed, to promote air circulation. After the first spring flush of flowers has finished, prune Group 2 clematis again, lightly, to encourage growth for the second period of bloom.
Group 3: This late-flowering group of clematis blooms on the current season’s new growth. Aggressive pruning will stimulate strong new growth and abundant flowering. Prune Group 3 clematis back to 12 inches, in late winter or early spring, while the plant is still dormant.
Clematis Chevalier™ belongs to Pruning Group 3 - prune back to 12 inches, in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Clematis Chevalier™
Landscaping with Clematis Chevalier™
Arbors and trellises: Train Chevalier™ clematis to climb arbors or trellises, creating a strong vertical accent and focal point in the garden. Keep in mind, Chevalier™ is a more compact variety and grows up to 6 feet tall. If you have a large structure to cover, like a pergola, consider planting a taller clematis variety like Apple Blossom (Clematis armandii ‘Apple Blossom’).
Fences: Plant clematis alongside fences to soften their appearance and add color and texture to the landscape. Chevalier™ clematis is particularly useful for covering and hiding chain link fences. As the vine grows, gently guide it along the chain links, helping it to cover the fencing and disguise the chain links.
Containers: Grow Chevalier™ clematis in containers on patios or balconies, making sure it has a trellis, obelisk, or suitable support to climb.
Screening: Use clematis to cover unsightly walls, sheds, or structures. Make sure the plant has a trellis or support to climb.
Mailbox garden: Let Chevalier™ clematis trail up and around your mailbox post. Keep in mind that clematis does require consistent watering - if your mailbox is located far away from your water source, you may want to choose flowering plants with a lower watering requirement, like the Rainbow Marcella coneflower.
Planting Companions for Clematis Chevalier™
Group 3 Clematis: Plant Chevalier™ alongside other Group 3 clematis, and let their blooms intermingle for a stunning floral display. All group 3 plants can be cut back in late winter to early spring, making your pruning task a breeze. Clematis ‘Taiga’ or ‘Pagoda’ work well.
Helen von Stein Lamb’s Ears (Stachys byzantina ‘Helen von Stein’): A ground cover grown for its large, velvety silver leaves.
Little Richard Abelia (Abelia x grandiflora ‘Little Richard’): An evergreen shrub with small white flowers.
Little Missy Boxwood (Buxus ‘Little Missy’): A small, compact, dense evergreen shrub.
New Dawn Climbing Rose (Rosa x ‘New Dawn’): A classic and fragrant climbing rose with shell pink flowers.
Peach Drift® Rose (Rosa hybrid ‘Meiggili’): A ground cover rose with soft peach-pink blooms.
White Swan Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea ‘White Swan’): A coneflower with bright white summer flowers.
Zagreb tickseed (Coreopsis verticillata ‘Zagreb’): Bright yellow flowers and fine-textured threadleaf foliage.
