If you’re looking to add a burst of vibrant color to your garden, the Rouge Cardinal Clematis (Clematis ‘Rouge Cardinal’) is an excellent choice. Known for its striking crimson-red flowers and vigorous growth, this perennial climber can enhance any garden space.
In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about growing and caring for the Rouge Cardinal Clematis, ensuring it thrives and beautifies your garden for years to come.
How Does It Look?
The Rouge Cardinal Clematis features large, velvety crimson-red flowers with four to six petals, each flower measuring up to 4-6 inches in diameter.
The buds are elongated and open into these deep red blooms, creating a striking visual display. The leaves are dark green, ovate, and grow in pairs along the stems, providing a lush backdrop to the vibrant flowers.
Native
Clematis species are native to various regions across the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in temperate zones. The Rouge Cardinal variety is a cultivated hybrid.
Hardiness Zones
4-9 (USDA)
Perennial
Rouge Cardinal Clematis is a perennial plant, meaning it returns year after year with proper care.
Requirement at the Time of Plantation
To plant Rouge Cardinal Clematis, follow these guidelines:
Soil: Use well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Depth: Plant the root ball about 2-3 inches below the soil surface to protect the roots.
Spacing: Space plants about 3-4 feet apart to allow for adequate growth.
Support: Provide a trellis, arbor, or other support structure for climbing.
Blooming Season
Rouge Cardinal Clematis typically blooms from mid-summer to early autumn.
How to Take Care
To ensure your Rouge Cardinal Clematis thrives, follow these care instructions:
Sunlight Requirement: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal blooming.
Water Requirement: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Ensure consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging. Deep watering is recommended to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring as new growth begins. Additional feeding with a high-potassium fertilizer can help promote continuous blooming.
Mulching: Use organic mulch like bark chips or compost to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the base of the plant to prevent rot.
Companion Planting: Suitable companions include roses, peonies, and other plants that share similar soil and sunlight requirements.
Uses
The Rouge Cardinal Clematis is primarily used for ornamental purposes, enhancing garden beauty with its rich red blooms. It is ideal for covering trellises, arbors, and fences, adding a touch of elegance to any landscape. There are no widely recognized medicinal or culinary uses for this specific variety.
How to Propagate
Propagate Rouge Cardinal Clematis by taking cuttings or layering in early spring or late summer. Ensure the cuttings have at least one pair of leaves and a section of stem to encourage root growth.
Problems and Organic Solutions
Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests organically. Fungal diseases like powdery mildew can be managed by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Special Facts
While the Rouge Cardinal Clematis doesn’t have specific associations with luck or feng-shui, its stunning blooms and vigorous growth make it a prized addition to any garden.
Key Facts for Growing Rouge Cardinal Clematis
| Category | Details |
| Appearance | Large, velvety crimson-red flowers with four to six petals, 4-6 inches in diameter. Elongated buds. Dark green, ovate leaves growing in pairs along the stems. |
| Native | Native to various regions across the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in temperate zones. Cultivated hybrid. |
| Hardiness Zones | 4-9 (USDA) |
| Perennial | Yes, it returns year after year with proper care. |
| Plantation Requirements | Well-draining soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Plant root ball 2-3 inches below soil surface. Space plants 3-4 feet apart. Provide trellis, arbor, or support structure. |
| Blooming Season | Mid-summer to early autumn. |
| Care Instructions | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade, at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Water: Regular watering, consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging. Fertilizer: Balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring, high-potassium fertilizer for continuous blooming. Mulching: Organic mulch like bark chips or compost; keep mulch a few inches from plant base. Companion Planting: Suitable with roses, peonies, and other similar soil and sunlight requirement plants. |
| Uses | Primarily ornamental for trellises, arbors, fences. No medicinal or culinary uses. |
| Propagation | Take cuttings or layer in early spring or late summer; ensure cuttings have at least one pair of leaves and a section of stem. |
| Problems and Solutions | Pests: Aphids and spider mites; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases: Powdery mildew; ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering. |
| Special Facts | No specific associations with luck or feng-shui, but known for stunning blooms and vigorous growth. |
Final takeaway!
The Rouge Cardinal Clematis is a beautiful and versatile plant that can add a touch of sophistication to your garden. With the right care, it will reward you with an abundance of rich, red blooms year after year. Ready to add this beauty to your garden? Plant the Rouge Cardinal Clematis today and enjoy its elegance for years to come. Happy gardening!
Misty S is the founder and lead writer at GrowOrganicGreens.com, a comprehensive gardening resource dedicated to helping people cultivate beautiful and sustainable gardens. She has a Master’s degree in Economics and specialized studies in agricultural economics, horticulture, and soil science. Drawing from her extensive knowledge and experience, Misty shares practical gardening tips on soil preparation, organic manure composting, fertilizers, plant care, and indoor gardening, making her advice accessible and helpful to gardeners of all levels.
Despite having an high-demanding 9-5 job, Misty dedicates her personal time to researching and exploring various gardening topics. Her keen interest in gardening has grown into a passion, driving her to help new gardeners and anyone interested in starting their gardening journey.
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