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Perennial climbing plants
Ranunculaceae
Compact purple-blue clematis for patios
Baroness Fookes clematis
Clematis ‘EviGsy156’
Baroness Fookes™ is a compact repeat-blooming clematis that generally reaches 90 to 120 cm. Its purple-blue flowers measure 12 to 14 cm across and carry a darker purple central bar, red anthers and slightly ruffled edges. An abundant first display extends from May through July, followed by another flush in late summer and early autumn. Dense mid- to deep-green foliage highlights the blooms. This climber is especially well suited to large containers, patios, lower obelisks and the middle or front of garden borders. Annual pruning to approximately 15 cm simplifies care and renews its compact framework. The accessible height keeps seasonal care straightforward.
- Exposure
- Gentle sun to partial shade
- Hardiness
- Zone 4 to 9
Discover the plant
Common nameBaroness Fookes clematis
FamilyRanunculaceae
GenusClematis
SpeciesGarden hybrids
CultivarEviGsy156 (Baroness Fookes)
TypePerennial climbing plants
Botanical nameClematis ‘EviGsy156’
Baroness Fookes™ Clematis (Clematis ‘EviGsy156’) is a compact, exceptionally free-flowering and repeat-blooming climber from Raymond Evison’s Guernsey breeding programme. Its large flowers measure 12 to 14 cm across and combine rich purple-blue sepals, a darker purple central bar and conspicuous red anthers. Slightly ruffled edges add texture, while dense mid- to deep-green foliage provides a clean background. The first flowering wave generally extends from May through July, followed by another display in late summer that may continue into early autumn. Successive buds maintain colour over several weeks, allowing newly opened and mature flowers to remain visible together.
With a usual height of 90 to 120 cm, Baroness Fookes™ suits patios, large containers, lower obelisks and the middle or front of garden borders. Choose gentle sun or partial shade and fertile, moisture-retentive yet well-drained soil. Set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface, install support before planting and keep the root zone cool. For container culture, use a frost-resistant pot at least 45 cm deep and wide, then check moisture regularly during warm weather. Guide fresh stems with loose ties so air and light reach the dense foliage evenly.
For the breeder’s straightforward method, cut every stem back to approximately 15 cm above soil level in late winter or early spring. This pruning renews the compact framework and encourages flowers close to the base. Water deeply when the surface begins to dry and feed moderately in spring; a light application after the first wave can support repeat flowering. Every clematis is toxic when eaten and its sap may irritate sensitive skin. Wear gloves while pruning and position the plant away from children or pets likely to chew garden plants.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Spacing / density
Approximately 60 to 90 cm (24 to 35 in) between crowns
Best planting time
Spring or early fall
Propagation
Semi-ripe cuttings or layering; commercial propagation may be restricted
Growing method
Plant Baroness Fookes™ in partial shade in fertile, organic-rich soil that remains moist yet drains well. Dig a hole wider than the root ball and set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface to encourage replacement stems. Install an obelisk or smaller trellis before planting and position the crown away from a wall so rainfall reaches the roots. Water deeply after planting, then maintain consistent moisture without saturation. Light mulch or flat stones keep roots cool without covering the base. Guide fresh stems with loose ties. In spring, add compost or balanced fertilizer. After an early wave, light feeding and steady watering can support flowers into early autumn. Pale tones show especially well against dark foliage. Inspect the crown and shoots regularly for slugs, aphids or sudden wilt. Good air circulation helps foliage dry after rain, while shelter protects the many flowers from severe wind damage. During hot periods, direct water toward the base rather than the flowers and space stems to encourage air circulation. Remove only damaged material so the abundant outdoor display remains balanced. Check ties after strong winds, replace any worn component and move shifted mulch away from the crown so emerging shoots remain visible.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Acid to alkaline
Minimum temperature
-34 °C (-29 °F)
Care level
Intermediate
Watering
Water deeply and regularly during establishment so the root ball stays evenly moist without becoming saturated. In hot weather, check containers and plants growing beside walls more often because these sites dry quickly. Direct water toward the base instead of wetting foliage. Established clematis still perform best with consistent moisture and should not be treated as highly drought tolerant, especially while actively extending and flowering.
Soil type
Fertile, organic-rich soil that holds moisture yet drains well suits Baroness Fookes™. Loam, clay, sand or chalk-based soil can work when excess water drains effectively. Mature compost improves moisture retention without leaving the crown waterlogged. Avoid sites where winter water collects, and keep the root zone cool during summer. Beside a wall, position the crown far enough from the foundation for rainfall to reach the roots instead of disappearing beneath an overhang.
Fertilization
In spring, add mature compost or apply a balanced fertilizer according to label directions. A second light feeding after the first flush can support Baroness Fookes™ repeat bloom. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages foliage at the expense of flowers. Water before and after feeding, then stop fertilizing early enough for stems to mature before winter. In containers, use smaller applications when needed because nutrients leach more quickly with frequent watering.
Moisture
Moist soil without standing water
Seasonal care
In late winter or early spring, cut every Baroness Fookes™ stem back to approximately 15 cm above soil level, just above strong buds. This straightforward breeder-recommended method renews the compact framework and returns flowers near the base. Wear gloves and use clean pruners because sap can irritate skin. In spring, add a thin layer of compost, check support and begin regular watering as growth accelerates. Guide new stems with loose ties and protect them from slugs. After the May-to-July wave, light feeding and consistent moisture can support the late-summer repeat. Check container moisture daily in hot weather. Remove damaged material, monitor aphids and keep the crown clear. In cold climates, protect pots from wind and repeated freeze-thaw cycles without moving the dormant plant into a heated room. During rainy periods, space shoots to improve air circulation. After severe heat, water slowly until the entire root ball is moist, directing water toward the soil instead of the flowers. When renewing mulch, leave a clear ring around the crown. Inspect ties after strong winds and replace any that rub against thickening stems. In fall, collect diseased foliage and confirm that drainage remains open. Raise outdoor containers slightly so winter thaws can escape, maintain modest moisture until dormancy and avoid allowing the potting mix to remain saturated around the buried crown. Continue these checks throughout the active season.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
At least 50 cm (20 in) deep and wide
Baroness Fookes™ is especially well suited to large containers because it remains 90 to 120 cm tall. Choose a frost-resistant pot at least 45 to 50 cm deep and wide with several drainage holes. Install a stable obelisk before filling the container. Use rich potting mix that retains moisture without remaining waterlogged and set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface. Position the pot in partial shade, where purple-blue flowers that mature purple-blue remain fresh. Distribute stems with loose ties. Check moisture daily during hot periods and feed moderately in spring. Light feeding after an early wave can support repeat bloom. In late winter, cut stems back to approximately 15 cm. In cold climates, raise the pot, protect its sides and shelter it from wind without moving the dormant plant into a heated room. Keep drainage openings clear during winter thaws and leave the crown visible for inspection. Rotate a movable container periodically for balanced gentle light and inspect ties after strong winds. Keep the crown visible when renewing mulch and leave enough space around the pot for watering without awkward reaching. Empty standing water from saucers and direct excess drainage away from walking surfaces. Replace any support component that begins to bend under dense flowering growth.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
Approximately 90 to 120 cm (3 to 4 ft)
Width / spread
Approximately 50 to 100 cm (20 to 39 in)
Flower color
Purple-blue with a darker purple central bar
Foliage color
Vibrant green, deciduous
Foliage type
Deciduous
Growth rate
Moderate to fast
Growth habit
Compact, dense and repeat-blooming climber
Fragrance
Not fragrant
Bloom period
Baroness Fookes™ produces abundant large purple-blue flowers 12 to 14 cm across, marked by a darker purple central bar and red anthers. Slightly ruffled edges add texture against dense foliage. The first wave extends from May through July, followed by another display in late summer that may continue into early autumn. Successive buds help maintain colour for several weeks during both displays.
Fruiting
Achenes with decorative feathery styles late in the season
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Pair Baroness Fookes™ with purple coral bells, deep-green ferns, blue-green hostas or shrubs carrying bronze foliage. These deeper colours highlight purple-blue flowers as they mature purple-blue in partial shade. Low perennials can keep soil cool, but preserve clear space around the crown for watering and pruning. Avoid overly vigorous plants or aggressive roots that could reduce available moisture. Several white or deep-blue flowers create complementary contrast without hiding the clematis or restricting access to compact emerging stems. Leave enough room to inspect and guide emerging stems safely.
Plants to avoid
Avoid highly invasive plants or aggressive roots immediately around the crowns
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
How should Baroness Fookes clematis be pruned?
For Raymond Evison’s simple method, cut every Baroness Fookes™ stem back to approximately 15 cm above soil level in late winter or early spring, just above healthy buds. This short pruning renews the compact habit and encourages flowers near the base. Another option is Group 2 pruning: remove dead or weak stems, then shorten the others to vigorous buds so more older wood remains for the earliest flowers. Use clean pruners, wear gloves and collect debris because clematis sap may irritate skin. Inspect the support afterward, replace worn ties and spread fresh shoots loosely before they become intertwined during rapid spring growth.
When does Baroness Fookes clematis flower?
Baroness Fookes™ produces an abundant first display from May through July, followed by another wave in late summer that may continue into early autumn. Purple-blue flowers measure 12 to 14 cm across and carry a darker purple central bar, red anthers and slightly ruffled edges. To support repeat bloom, maintain consistent moisture, feed moderately after the first wave and distribute young stems across support. The breeder’s straightforward method is to cut every stem back to approximately 15 cm in late winter or early spring. Consistent watering during warm weather helps successive buds open evenly and keeps the repeat display from becoming shortened by drought stress.
Does Baroness Fookes clematis suit containers?
Yes. Baroness Fookes™ suits a large frost-resistant container at least 45 to 50 cm deep and wide, fitted with several drainage holes and a stable obelisk. Its usual height of 90 to 120 cm in the compact form creates a strong vertical display without becoming imposing on a terrace. Use rich potting mix that retains moisture without remaining waterlogged. Set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface, then water until excess drains freely. Check moisture daily during hot weather. In winter, shelter the pot from wind, insulate its sides and raise it to prevent standing water and repeated freeze-thaw cycles around the roots.
What site suits Baroness Fookes clematis?
Choose partial shade in any aspect that provides gentle, consistent light. Baroness Fookes™ was selected for shadier parts of the garden, where white, faintly pink-flushed blooms stand out against darker foliage. Soil should be fertile, organic-rich, moisture-retentive and well drained. Position the crown 30 to 60 cm away from a foundation so rainfall reaches the roots. Light mulch, flat stones or a low companion keeps soil cool without covering the base. Install support before planting and preserve easy access to strong stems if several flowers will be cut for indoor arrangements. Good air circulation helps foliage dry after rain without exposing pale blooms to severe winds.
Is Baroness Fookes clematis toxic?
Yes. Like other clematis, Baroness Fookes™ contains protoanemonin and is toxic to dogs, cats and horses when eaten. Ingestion can cause salivation, vomiting and diarrhea. In people, plant material may cause severe mouth irritation, while sap can irritate sensitive skin. Wear gloves for pruning, wash exposed skin and never present any part as edible. Position the plant away from young children and pets that chew garden plants, and collect cut stems promptly after maintenance. If ingestion occurs or symptoms appear, contact an appropriate medical professional or veterinarian promptly. Do not attempt home treatment unless a qualified professional provides specific instructions for the situation.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Reported toxicity
Yes
Supporting wildlife
Clematis flowers can be visited by bees and other insects seeking pollen, and some also supply nectar. The specific wildlife value of Baroness Fookes™ may vary by region and the availability of other flowers. It is therefore presented as useful to pollinating insects without promising special attraction for butterflies or hummingbirds. Avoid spraying open flowers when pollinators are active.