An Early Large-Flowered Variety - Cold Hardy to Zone 4
Clematis 'Duchess of Edinburgh' is a showy, perennial, large-flowered clematis offering late spring/early summer to late summer interest, blooming heavily in late spring/early summer with a second wave of blooms in late summer/early fall on the current year's growth. Free flowering, the plant sets large, 4- to 6-inch, rosette-shaped, pure white double flowers with a center boss of white filaments and creamy stamens. The later flushes produce semi double or single-petaled blooms. The plant blooms on old and new wood, and at maturity, the vine is fully covered in flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The flowers have strong stems and a long vase life.
A deciduous woody vine, Clematis 'Duchess of Edinburgh' has a moderately vigorous, twining, and trailing habit of bright green leaves that stay fresh and attractive all season. There is an old saying about clematis' growth rate: The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and the third year they leap. Train clematis to climb a trellis, arbor, post, or fence, adding vertical interest.
Cold hardy, easy to grow, and disease resistant, Clematis prefers cool, moist, well-drained soil and full sun to part shade. Good site selection is key. So, remember the adage for success with clematis when planting: feet in the shade, head in the sun. The plant should be placed where the leaves get plenty of sunshine (approx. 6 hours), but the roots are shaded and kept cool, either by low-growing, evergreen shrubs or by heavy mulch. Good drainage is important, and extremely wet locations should be avoided. Protect plants from strong winds but allow good air circulation. Deer resistant.