Clematis Petit FauconTM 'Evisix'
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Family: Ranunculaceae
Pronounced: KLEM-uh-tiss
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Vines.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: A1, A3, 1-9, 14-17.
USDA zones: 3-9.
Mature size:
Height: 3 feet (1 m).
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Flowering period: June-October.
Flowering attributes: Semi-nodding flowers of deep violet purple, with yellow anthers.
Leaf attributes: Deciduous, green leaves. New foliage is a bronzy-green.
Light: Tops in full sun, feet in shade. | Partial shade.
Soil: Fertile, humus rich, well-drained soil.
Feeding: Mulch well with composted manure or compost. Feed once a month with a complete organic fertilizer during the growing season.
Propagation Methods: Layer branches in late winter. | Basal and softwood cuttings in spring. | Division in spring. | Semi-ripe cuttings in early summer.
Pruning Methods: Pruning group 3 or C.
Rainy Side Notes
This 1995 introduction from clematis breeder, Raymond Evison, is a stunning little non-clinging clematis. In 1998, the British Clematis Society awarded its Certificate of Merit to four clematis, including Clematis Petit FauconTM 'Evisix'. The BCS also included this clematis in their First National Clematis Display Garden, at Bourne Hall, Ewell, Surrey in England.
I have faith this will eventually find its way to become a Great Plant Pick for Pacific Northwest gardens. Three months of captivating flowers every year is a grand enough reason to grow it in our gardens. The shape of the flowers resembles the wings of the bird it was named after. Deep purple buds open to orange-yellow stamens that fade to a silvery-white, contrasting against the upright, deep purple blossoms with a slight twist to its petals. In time the flowers fade and turn into neat, cylindrical seed heads, all of which augments its charm.
I cherish this clematis growing up an old mailbox where I keep my small garden tools. The first year in the ground, it grew exceptionally well and flowered during the entire summer. For a small obelisk or lamppost, this cultivar is the perfect size! It does need tying up to a structure however, since it will not climb like other clematis. It is suitable for growing along the ground, in a container, or draped over a wall.
Debbie Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
Additional Reading
Planting and Care of Clematis.
Book Recommendation: Gardening with Clematis : Design & Cultivation
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