Waitrose branches are selling seven new Raymond Evison Clematis varieties in over 240 of its shops this summer.
The new clematis lines, which have been bred by Guernsey Clematis nurseryman and international award winner Raymond Evison, are: Viennetta, Crystal Fountain, Diamantina, Kimiko, Tranquility, Sarah Elizabeth and Amethyst Beauty and were selected by Waitrose’s UK Horticulture Buyer, Samantha Brett, during her recent visit to the island.
Mrs Brett and Waitrose Admiral Park branch manager Ian Burdekin were shown around the nursery by Raymond Evison who also discussed the new varieties of clematis he was planning to cultivate for 2019.
Waitrose has stocked Mr Evison’s world renowned clematis for a number of years and these perennial plants, vines and climbers continue to be extremely popular with its customers.
Mr Evison said: “Although we export our plants all over the world, it is always good to receive feedback from our buyers who are close to consumers. In turn it was good to explain our latest plans and talk about the new lines we are working on for next year.”
Raymond Evison Clematis produces over two million young plants per year, exports worldwide and is currently building new business in South Korea, Japan and China. The Guernsey nursery has exhibited at Chelsea Flower Show and other world acclaimed horticultural shows for many years and last year Raymond Evison Clematis was awarded his 29th RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold medal.
Mrs Brett found her visit to the nursery fascinating: “The clematis is an extremely beautiful flowering plant and very popular among our customers. Each season we try and refresh the range, as we know that customers often collect clematis and have a number of different varieties in their gardens. It is lovely to be able to bring a little bit of Guernsey to our branches,” she said.
One of the plants in Waitrose’s new range is “Viennetta” which displays stunning white petals and a strong purple centre. This variety is always a star attraction on exhibits at the Chelsea Flower Show.
For details of the other plants go to www.raymondevisonclematis.com.
The plants will be available in the Waitrose shops that sell outdoor plants throughout the summer.
