Mountain clematis is a woody perennial twining vine in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) that hails from the Himalayas to Taiwan and China. The species epithet is Latin for “of mountains” and refers to the species’ home. It is easy to grow when placed in full sun to partial shade and well-drained, soil high in organic matter with a neutral to basic pH. Depending upon the support structure, it can climb 16 to 40 feet high and spread 8 to 15 feet wide. Mulch the plant to help keep the roots cool and moist. It blooms on previous season's growth, so prune after flowering (Type 1). Propagate by layering or stem cutting. Its star-shaped flowers cascade down the vine and come in blue, pinks, and purple. This plant's vanilla fragrance fills the air and makes it a great addition to a patio or walkway where the fragrance can be enjoyed. It attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, so be sure to consider it for a pollinator garden. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens. More information on Clematis .
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.
Poisonous to Humans; Problem for Cats; Problem for Dogs; Problem for Horses
Resistant to
Black Walnut; Deer; Rabbits
Particularly resistant to
This plant is less frequently damaged by deer than other clematis species.
Propagation
Layering; Stem Cutting
Poison severity
High
Poison parts
Leaves; Sap/Juice
Poison symptoms
Clematis can cause severe mouth pain and ulcers if eaten. Toxic to dogs, cats, horses. Clinical signs are salivation, vomiting, diarrhea. In humans, symptoms may include dizziness, confusion, fainting, and convulsions. Fatalities are rare, due to the rapid and intense bitter taste and mouth irritation from eating. Gastric lavage is recommended and anti-inflammatory to soothe irritated tissue. Contact dermatitis results in skin redness and burning sensation for some people, gardening gloves are recommended.
Toxic principle
protoanemonin
Contact dermatitis
Yes
Toxicity summary
High severity poison; parts: Leaves; Sap/Juice; contact dermatitis