Clematis ‘Josephine‘ (Evijohill) is a compact, repeat-blooming deciduous climber known for large, 4–5 inch, double, pink-lilac flowers with striking, pom-pom-like centers that bloom from May to October. Ideal for small gardens, containers, or covering fences, it thrives in sun to part shade (zones 4–11) and reaches heights of 6–9 feet.
Key Characteristics & Care
- Blooms: The flowers are unique, often featuring bronze-green, three-tiered, or fully double, lilac-pink blooms that can last up to 4 weeks, with color intensifying in full sun.
- Size: Compact, growing to roughly 180cm–275cm (6–9 ft) tall and 120cm (4 ft) wide.
- Pruning: It belongs to Pruning Group 2, requiring light pruning in early spring (March) to remove dead wood and cut stems back to a pair of strong buds.
- Planting: Prefers moist, well-drained soil and should be planted 7.5cm (3″) deeper than the pot level to encourage new base growth.
- Usage: Excellent for trellises, arbors, containers, and patios.
- Origin: Introduced by Raymond Evison in 1998 at the Chelsea Flower Show.
This variety is highly valued for its long, uninterrupted bloom time, making it a “show-stopper” in small spaces.
