0










Clematis vitalba

Evergreen Clematis, Old-man's Beard, Traveller's Joy

  • Clematis vitalba

Please select the quantity desired, and we will advise availability and price as soon as possible.

Details

Min. hardiness zone:
5
Item ID:

Growing Info

Scarification
Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours
Stratification
Stratification: cold stratify for 60 days
Germination
Germination: sow seed 1/16" deep, tamp the soil, lightly mulch the seed bed.

Other: can be fall sown without stratification. 

Evergreen Clematis, also known as Clematis vitalba, Old-man's Beard, or Traveller's Joy, is a climbing shrub native to Europe. With its branched, grooved stems and deciduous leaves, this shrub adds a touch of beauty and elegance to any garden. It produces scented greeny-white flowers with fluffy underlying sepals, which give it the characteristic appearance of Old Man's Beard. The many fruits formed in each inflorescence have long silky appendages, adding to its visual appeal.

Clematis vitalba is a vigorous plant, with 1" white flowers that have a slight almond scent, starting in July. The boiled roots and stems of this plant have been traditionally used as a cure for itch. However, it should be noted that the plant is poisonous and should not be taken internally. It is best to appreciate its beauty from a safe distance.

This climbing shrub is also a favorite among moths, as their larvae feed on its flowers and leaves. It is a versatile plant that thrives in base-rich alkaline soils and a moist climate with warm summers. In the UK, it is a common native plant, found throughout England and parts of Wales. However, it has also been widely planted and can be found as far north as the southern highlands of Scotland.

While it is a beautiful addition to gardens, it is important to note that Clematis vitalba is considered an invasive plant in many areas. Its disseminatory reproductive system, vitality, and climbing behavior allow it to spread rapidly and suffocate other plant species if not controlled. In fact, in New Zealand, it is listed as an "unwanted organism" and cannot be sold or distributed. It poses a threat to native plants due to its vigorous growth and ability to form a dense canopy.

Apart from its aesthetics, Clematis vitalba also has practical uses. During the Stone Age in Switzerland, it was used to make rope. In Slovenia, the stems were used for weaving baskets and binding crops. In Italy, the sprouts of this plant are harvested to make omelettes. However, caution should be exercised as the plant can cause skin irritation and destruction of mucous membranes.

Overall, Clematis vitalba is a versatile and visually appealing climbing shrub. Its charming flowers, fluffy sepals, and long silky appendages make it a standout in any garden. While its invasive nature should be kept in check, its beauty and practical uses make it a valuable addition to any landscape.

You might also like

Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Dawn Redwood

Papaver somniferum

Papaver somniferum

Opium Poppy

Robinia pseudoacacia

Robinia pseudoacacia

Black Locust, False Acacia, Yellow Locust

Vaccinium corymbosum

Vaccinium corymbosum

Highbush Blueberry

(315) 497-1058
269 NY-34 Locke NY 13092
seed@sheffields.com

HOME - logo

Find us on: