Since my journey began this year in learning, growing, and arranging flowers, I've discovered many I didn't even know existed. I've realized I've been missing out on their beauty my whole life. Clematis is one of those flowers. As equally as I love the flower itself, I love arranging with it and photographing it. It's an absolute dream with its delicate blooms and long, flowing vines. Each time I see the flowers, I am reminded of the first time I saw them in Willow Crossley's course on floral arranging. Their elegance and grace captivated me instantly. Now, I find joy in caring for my clematis plants, whether they are in pots on my apartment patio or in the flower patch at my parents' house.

Photo by Jamie East of the ‘Stand by Me Lavender’ Clematis

Watching them bloom, even if only once so far, fills me with anticipation for the next burst of color. Everyone assures me that they will bloom again after a few months, and I eagerly await that moment. With so many varieties to choose from, each more stunning than the last, it's a delightful challenge to decide which ones to grow next.

Photo by Jamie East of the ‘Henryi’ Clematis

Not only do I love the flowers themselves, but I also adore arranging them and capturing their beauty in photographs. The clematis, with its delicate petals and graceful vines, adds a touch of enchantment to any setting. It's truly a flower that has captured my heart and continues to inspire me every day.

Here’s a few tips and tricks when arranging with clematis and some of my own photography to showcase their graceful beauty.

Photo and arrangement by Jamie East of ‘Stand by Me Lavender” Clematis, Pinkish/Purple Alsromeria and a solo Sunflower in a vintage hand painted vase from Portugal.

Choosing the Right Clematis

When selecting clematis for your arrangement, consider the color, size, and type of flower. Clematis come in a variety of colors, including purple, pink, white, and blue, allowing you to match them with other flowers or your decor. Some popular varieties for arrangements include Clematis 'Nelly Moser', Clematis 'Jackmanii', and Clematis 'The President'.

Preparing the Flowers

Before arranging, it's essential to prepare your clematis flowers properly. Start by cutting the stems at a 45-degree angle to ensure they can absorb water efficiently. Remove any leaves that will be below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth. Place the cut stems in a bucket of lukewarm water with floral preservative and let them hydrate for a few hours.

Another tip I love to use when conditioning my flowers is to cut the stems and immediately place them in boiling water for 10-30 seconds, depending on the size of the stem. Use 10 seconds for thin stems and 30 seconds for hardy, thicker ones like wood stems.

Creating the Arrangement

Choose a Vase or Container: Select a vase or container that complements the size and style of your clematis flowers. A clear glass vase can showcase the stems and add a modern touch, while a rustic ceramic pot can create a more traditional look. (Place some chicken wire in your arrangement to hold your stems in place and make for easier arranging.)
Add Filler Flowers and Greenery: Start by adding some filler flowers and greenery to provide structure and support for the clematis. Branches, ferns, and Solomon’s Seal are excellent choices that pair well with clematis.
Arrange the Clematis: Add the clematis flowers, spacing them evenly throughout the arrangement. Vary the heights and angles to create a natural, flowing look. Be gentle with the delicate blooms to avoid damaging the petals.
Accentuate with Additional Blooms: Consider adding other complementary flowers to enhance the arrangement. Roses, peonies, and lilies can add depth and texture, while smaller blooms like daisies or lavender can provide contrast.
Finishing Touches: Once you're satisfied with the arrangement, add water to the vase, ensuring it covers the stems but not the leaves. Place the arrangement in a cool, well-lit area away from direct sunlight to prolong the life of the flowers.

Caring for Your Clematis Arrangement

To keep your clematis arrangement looking fresh, change the water every two days and trim the stems slightly to encourage water absorption. Remove any wilted flowers or leaves to maintain the overall appearance. With proper care, your clematis arrangement can last up to a week or more.

Happy arranging!

xo,

Jamie

Arranging with Clematis Flowers: Tips and Ideas

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Arranging with Clematis Flowers: Tips and Ideas

Feature Friday | July 26

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