One of the oldest Clematis hybrids. Raised in 1874 by cross-breeding Clematis integrifolia and Clematis lanuginosa. Deep blue, bell shaped flowers become flat when fully open, borne from June to September. Filaments violet at the base, the upper part white, topped with yellow anthers. A beautiful perennial clematis with raised, non-clinging stems (as in climbing rose). When no support is provided, it scrambles over the ground. Looks lovely when intermingled with another plants. A hardy cultivar, particularly useful on perennial borders, planted among shrubs, conifers or tied to small supports. It forms a spectacular display against bright background or among yellow leafed or yellow flowered plants.