Western White Clematis

Scientific name

Clematis ligusticifolia

Description

Western White Clematis is a perennial woody vine species that can climb about 6 m in height if supported. This plant may also be known by the common names: Old Man’s Beard, Creek Clematis, or Pepper Vine. The leaves are dark green, oppositely arranged, pinnately compound with 5-7 leaflets, have three lobes, and have coarsely toothed margins. The flowers are white, appear in loose clusters from the leaf axils, have showy sepals, and bloom between June and August. These flowers produce unique fruits, which are white, silky, feathery, and resemble an 'old man's beard'. The flowers are beneficial for pollinator species like hummingbirds and butterflies. Bird species like to use the fluffy seeds for building nests. The leaves and stem have a strong pepper taste but are potentially toxic to humans and should not be consumed in large quantities. This plant grows easily, spreads well, and blooms for long periods. The root system is valuable for controlling erosion and stabilizing soil.

Planting conditions

Western White Clematis grows best in moist conditions with partial sun exposure. It prefers rich, well-drained, loam soil types but can tolerate clay and sand. It is tolerant of shade, which can be beneficial to keep the roots cool on hot summer days. It is tolerant of competition and can grow aggressively so consider pruning every 3-5 years. This vine can be naturally found in forests, forest edges, and along shaded stream or lake shorelines.

Details

• Plant height:
  • Any
  • Over 3m
• Moisture level:
  • Normal
  • Moist
• Light conditions:
  • Partial sun
  • Shade
• Soil type:
  • Sandy
  • Loamy
  • Clay
  • Humus
• pH:
  • Normal
• Depth:
  • Potted
• Eco Zone:
  • 2a
  • 2b
  • 3a
  • 3b
  • 4a
  • 4b
  • 5a
  • 5b
  • 6a
  • 6b
  • 7a
• Plant type:
  • Vine
• Height:
  • 6 m
• Spread:
  • 1 m