Clematis ‘Ville de Lyon’ is a popular, vigorous deciduous climber featuring large (4-6 inch), vibrant carmine-red flowers with carmine edges and lighter, sometimes mauve-pink centers. Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, it grows 10-12 feet tall, prefers full sun to partial shade with cool roots, and is a hardy, reliable Group 3, prune-hardy variety.
Key Characteristics & Care
- Flowers: Large, bright, carmine-red blooms that often darken towards the edges.
- Bloom Time: Mid-summer to early fall (July to October).
- Height: Vigorous grower, reaching 10–12 feet (2.5–4 meters).
- Light: Full sun to partial shade; prefers “cool roots” (shaded base).
- Soil: Moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
- Pruning Group: 3 (Late Large-Flowered). Cut back hard in late winter or early spring (15-30cm from ground).
- Hardiness: Zones 4–11.
- Uses: Ideal for trellises, fences, walls, and growing through shrubs.
Tips for Success
- Root Protection: Shade the base of the plant with low-growing plants or mulch to prevent roots from overheating.
- Feeding: Requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist.
- Versatility: Excellent for both garden soil and containers.
