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Perennial climbing plants
Ranunculaceae
Ultra-compact clematis for window boxes
Bijou clematis
Clematis ‘Evipo030’
Bijou™ is an ultra-compact clematis only 30 to 60 cm tall, perfectly suited to small spaces. Single and occasional semi-double flowers measure 8 to 12 cm across and combine six to eight mauve sepals with ruffled margins around pink anthers. Flowering can continue from mid-spring into early autumn. Its low dense habit suits window boxes, hanging baskets, smaller containers and patio tables, with or without a miniature trellis. Partial shade, moist soil and attentive watering maintain balanced foliage. Very short pruning to 7 or 10 cm renews the flowering cushion each year and keeps large blooms close to eye level.
- Exposure
- Partial shade preferred; gentle sun if roots remain cool
- Hardiness
- Zone 4 to 9
Discover the plant
Common nameBijou clematis
FamilyRanunculaceae
GenusClematis
SpeciesGarden hybrids
CultivarEvipo030 (Bijou; also marketed as Thumbelina)
TypePerennial climbing plants
Botanical nameClematis ‘Evipo030’
Bijou™ Clematis (Clematis ‘Evipo030’) is an ultra-compact Tudor Patio™ clematis developed for small spaces. Unlike taller climbing varieties, it reaches only 30 to 60 cm. Single and occasional semi-double flowers measure 8 to 12 cm across and present six to eight mauve sepals with attractively ruffled margins around pink anthers. Deciduous green foliage creates a dense cushion that highlights blooms remarkably large for such a low plant. This unusual proportion makes flower details easy to enjoy from a balcony, patio table or terrace edge, even where there is no room for a conventional trellis or large climbing framework.
Bijou™ is particularly suited to small and medium containers, window boxes and hanging baskets. Its short stems can trail slightly over an edge or be guided on a small ring, miniature trellis or several slender stakes. Partial shade provides the best conditions, although gentle sun can be suitable when roots remain cool. Use fertile, moisture-retentive yet well-drained soil. In a container, choose enough volume to protect the roots and provide several drainage openings. Set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface and keep the base accessible for watering and inspection. Position baskets where they can be reached safely for routine moisture checks.
Flowering can extend from mid-spring into early autumn under suitable conditions. In late winter or early spring, cut every stem back to only 7 to 10 cm above soil level. This very short pruning renews the compact cushion and encourages flowers close to the base. Water deeply when the surface begins to dry; window boxes and hanging baskets need frequent checks during hot or windy weather. Feed moderately in spring and lightly after an early flowering wave. Like every clematis, Bijou™ is toxic when eaten and its sap may irritate sensitive skin. Wear gloves during pruning and position containers away from children or pets likely to chew ornamental plants.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Spacing / density
Approximately 40 to 60 cm (16 to 24 in) between crowns
Best planting time
Spring or early fall
Propagation
Semi-ripe cuttings or layering; commercial propagation may be restricted
Growing method
Plant Bijou™ in partial shade in fertile, organic-rich soil that remains moist yet drains well. Its extremely small habit allows use in a window box, hanging basket, compact container or border edge. Still choose enough volume to protect roots and stabilize moisture. Set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface and provide several drainage holes. A small ring, miniature trellis or several slender stakes can guide stems, but a large support is unnecessary. Water deeply after planting, then check moisture frequently, especially in baskets exposed to wind. Add compost or balanced fertilizer in spring and light feeding after the first wave. Avoid standing water and prolonged dryness. Rotate movable containers periodically for balanced light. Inspect fresh shoots for slugs, aphids or sudden wilt. Keep the crown visible when renewing mulch or the upper layer of potting mix, and place baskets where routine care can be completed safely. During hot periods, water slowly until the entire root ball is moist, then allow excess to drain. Remove only damaged material and keep enough space between stems for air to circulate around foliage and large flowers. Check small supports and basket fittings after strong winds, and move any shifted mulch away from the crown promptly.
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 Bijou™. 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 Bijou™ 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 Bijou™ stem back to only 7 to 10 cm above soil level, just above strong buds. This very short pruning renews the compact cushion and brings large flowers close to the base. Wear gloves and use clean pruners because sap may irritate skin. Check small stakes or the miniature trellis afterward. In spring, refresh the upper potting-mix layer with compost and begin regular watering as growth resumes. Protect fresh shoots from slugs. During flowering, remove only damaged material. After an early wave, light feeding and stable moisture support new blooms into early autumn. Check hanging baskets and window boxes daily during hot or windy weather. In fall, collect diseased foliage and inspect drainage. In cold climates, lower exposed baskets, shelter containers from wind and reduce repeated freeze-thaw cycles around the roots. Keep the crown visible throughout seasonal care so new shoots and moisture can be monitored quickly. As growth begins, distribute young stems around the small support without tightening ties. Monitor aphids and remove any shoot that wilts suddenly. After heavy rain, verify that drainage openings remain clear. During flowering, direct water toward the potting mix rather than the blooms. As roots fill the container densely, plan a move to a slightly larger vessel during dormancy. These steps keep the plant stable and reduce rapid moisture fluctuations. When a basket is lowered for winter protection, inspect hooks, chains and liners before reinstalling it in spring. Replace any worn component before the container becomes heavy with water.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
At least 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in) deep and wide
Bijou™ is specially adapted to small and medium containers, window boxes and hanging baskets because it remains 30 to 60 cm tall. Choose a vessel deep and wide enough to stabilize moisture, ideally at least 30 to 40 cm depending on format, with several drainage holes. Use rich potting mix that retains water without becoming saturated. Set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface. Add a small ring, miniature trellis or several slender stakes if upright stems are preferred; otherwise allow them to trail gently over the edge. Position the container in partial shade and check moisture daily during hot or windy weather. Feed moderately in spring. In late winter, cut every stem back to 7 or 10 cm. Install baskets at an accessible height, inspect their fittings regularly and prevent saucers from retaining water. In winter, shelter the container from wind and protect its sides without moving the dormant plant into a heated room. Rotate a movable container periodically for balanced light and inspect fittings after strong winds. Remove only damaged leaves or flowers, keep the crown visible and leave enough room around the pot for watering without awkward or unstable reaching. If roots begin filling the container densely, move the plant to a slightly larger vessel during dormancy.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
Approximately 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 ft)
Width / spread
Approximately 50 to 100 cm (20 to 39 in) depending on container and training
Flower color
Mauve with pink anthers
Foliage color
Vibrant green, deciduous
Foliage type
Deciduous
Growth rate
Moderate to fast
Growth habit
Ultra-compact, low, dense and gently trailing
Fragrance
Not fragrant
Bloom period
Bijou™ produces single and occasional semi-double flowers 8 to 12 cm across. Six to eight mauve sepals with ruffled margins surround pink anthers. Blooms appear especially large beside a plant only 30 to 60 cm tall. Flowering can begin in mid-spring and continue into early autumn when the plant receives gentle light, consistent moisture and moderate feeding in a well-drained container or garden position.
Fruiting
Achenes with decorative feathery styles late in the season
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Pair Bijou™ with small coral bells, fine sedges, miniature ferns or compact white-flowered annuals. Silver, lime-green or purple foliage highlights mauve blooms and pink anthers. In a window box or basket, choose restrained companions that enjoy partial shade and consistent moisture. Keep clear space around the crown for watering and pruning. Avoid aggressive roots or dense trailing species that could smother the clematis’s short stems, hide emerging shoots or make daily moisture checks difficult. Leave enough room to inspect the crown and water each plant evenly.
Plants to avoid
Avoid highly invasive plants or aggressive roots immediately around the crowns
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
How should Bijou clematis be pruned?
In late winter or early spring, cut every Bijou™ stem back to approximately 7 to 10 cm above soil level, just above healthy buds. This very short pruning suits its miniature 30 to 60 cm habit and renews a dense cushion that flowers close to the base. Use small clean pruners, wear gloves and collect debris because sap may irritate skin. Inspect the miniature trellis, ring or basket fittings afterward. When fresh shoots appear, distribute them gently without tightening ties. Avoid retaining long older stems that would unbalance the small container and move flowers away from eye level. Begin regular watering as growth resumes and protect tender shoots from slugs where baskets or pots are placed near the ground.
Does Bijou clematis suit a hanging basket?
Yes. Bijou™ is one of the few clematis specifically recommended for hanging baskets because its stems reach only 30 to 60 cm. Choose a basket large and deep enough to stabilize moisture, fitted with strong support and several drainage openings. Use rich potting mix, set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface and position the basket in partial shade. Allow stems to trail gently or guide them on a small ring. Check moisture daily during hot or windy weather and water slowly until excess drains. Hang the basket at an accessible height and inspect hooks, chains and the anchor point regularly. Avoid positioning it above a walkway where drainage could create a slippery surface.
What container size suits Bijou clematis?
Choose a container approximately 30 to 40 cm deep and wide for one plant, with several drainage holes. This volume remains compact while providing enough potting mix to protect roots and slow drying. A deep window box or basket of comparable volume is also suitable. Use rich potting mix that holds moisture without remaining waterlogged and set the crown 5 to 8 cm below the surface. Add a small ring or miniature trellis only if some stems should remain upright. Check moisture very frequently because smaller containers dry quickly. In winter, protect the sides from wind, keep drainage openings clear and avoid moving the dormant plant into a heated indoor room.
What site suits Bijou clematis?
Partial shade provides the best conditions for Bijou™. Gentle morning sun can be suitable when roots remain cool and the container does not dry too quickly. Avoid very hot positions, heat-reflecting walls and baskets exposed to constant wind. Soil should be fertile, moist and well drained. Keep the crown visible beneath light mulch and set it 5 to 8 cm below the surface. On a balcony, place the container inside the railing or on stable support. The site should allow frequent safe watering and drainage that does not create a slippery surface below. Easy access also makes it possible to inspect basket fittings, fresh shoots and moisture without unsafe reaching.
Is Bijou clematis toxic?
Yes. Like other clematis, Bijou™ 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 Bijou™ 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.