The Flower With Long-Lasting Pretty Violet Blooms That Flourishes In A Pot

If you are looking for a flower that grows well in pots and has beautiful violet blooms, the early large-flowered clematis (clematis 'Diamantina') should definitely be on your list. Honestly, it is a true showstopper. Its flowers are not just pretty, but they are also large (measuring 4 to 6 inches) with each flower blooming for up to one month, giving you months to enjoy a beautiful display of purple and lavender colors as a potted plant. The best part? Since clematis 'Diamantina' is a group-two clematis, it can bloom two times a year. First in early summer, on top of last year's growth, and sometimes again in late summer on new growth of the current year. Just keep in mind it is not a small plant, even when grown in pots.

It grows about 6 to 8 feet tall, and you cannot prune it too heavily. If you do, it can reduce or prevent its blooms. On the plus side, however, it is rather easy to grow and takes about 2 to 5 years to reach its full size. Just keep in mind clematis 'Diamantina' is only hardy in USDA plant zones 4 to 11. If you live further north, you will have to go with some other flowering perennials that can withstand frigid winters in pots. But if you do live in its range, it is an excellent flower for growing against fences and walls.

If you want your clematis 'Diamantina' to flourish in pots, make sure you choose the right container for your plants. At the very least, use a pot that is about 18 inches deep and wide. Also, use containers made of wood, ceramics, or terracotta. Don't use thin-walled, plastic, or metal containers –clematis 'Diamantina' likes its roots cool, and such pots can get hot very fast. In fact, if you can, shade the soil or base of the plant with other plants or a layer of stones.

Clematis 'Diamantina' prefers a rich, well-draining soil. So, be sure to feed it using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. To boost flowering, switch to a potassium-rich fertilizer from spring until the end of its blooming period. Keep it in a spot of partial or full sun, anduse pots that have proper drainage as excessive moisture can make clematis 'Diamantina' prone to wilt disease. 

As for pruning, you can prune clematis 'Diamantina' two times a year — once in late winter or early spring to remove weak or dead branches, and then once again after the first wave of flowers to encourage a second wave. Just make sure to prune lightly or leave it alone until it is fully mature. And only then, prune it hard every 3 to 4 years. Just make sure to use clean tools and don't forget to use the three D rule to properly prune your plants.