clematis 'Purple Rain'

Plant in a moisture-retentive, well-drained soil, with the roots and base of the plant kept cool and shaded by other plants or a layer of pebbles at the base. Plant with the crown 5-8cm (2-3in) deep to encourage new shoots to grow from below ground level. Can be grown in containers at least 45cm (18in) deep and wide in a soil-based potting compost. See clematis cultivation

Propagate by softwood cuttings in spring, semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering in late winter or early spring

Aphids, capsid bug and slugs may be troublesome. Earwigs can nibble petals

May be affected by powdery mildews. Clematis wilt and clematis slime flux are occasional problems