Clematis is a genus of more than 300 species of flowering vines, shrubs and herbaceous perennials in the family Ranunculaceae, native to East Asia.
These plants come in different shapes, sizes and colors, including a range of different flower types. They are versatile and easy to care for. Clematis, also known as the “Queen of the climbers”, is without a doubt one of the most popular garden plants. Its flexible and flowering stems provide exciting effects in the garden, creating a glorious experience all season long.
Name meaning
The genus name has Greek origin and means “climbing plant”.
Clematis symbolism
Clematis represents artifice, ingenuity and mental beauty.
Interesting facts about Clematis
The Climbing Strategy of Clematis
Different climbing plants use different strategies to climb, but they all have a strategy of relying on the support of other plants or objects to reach the sunlight. Some have twining stems or tendrils, while others have adhesive pads or clinging stem roots.
Clematis doesn’t have the advantage of tendrils or aerial rootlets to climb vertically. Instead of that, their leaf stems reach out for objects such as wood or metal to wrap around. These leaf stems are relatively short so anything that’s more than about 1/4-inch (0,6 cm) in diameter is too wide for the leaf stem to twist around.
Is Clematis Toxic?
All parts of the plant are toxic. Clematis contains a toxic called “anemonin” that affects both pets and humans and can cause dermatitis in some cases.
Benefits and Uses
Clematis Ligusticifolia, also known as Pepper vine, was used as a black pepper substitute when black pepper was very expensive.
Clematis Plant Data
Plant Type:
Climbers, Perennials, Shrubs
Color:
These flowers offer a wide range of different colors.
Hardiness Zones:
3-11
Blooms in:
Spring, Autumn, Winter, Summer
Height:
These plants range in size from 30 cm (1 ft) to 12 metres (40 ft).
Soil needs:
Clematis prefers moist and well drained soil. The ideal soil ph is between 5.5 and 7.0.
