The elaborate flowers of clematis 39purpurea plena elegans39 are notable for their many layers of dark pink petals the hardy climber also known as clematis 39purpurea plena elegans39 or old man39s beard has been given an award of garden merit 40agm41 by the rhs for its summer blooms and fast growing nature despite this desirable vigorous quality the plant remains easy to manage whether you choose to plant it in a cottage garden or grow it up a wall height 3m 409