Bush clematis is a deciduous, perennial vine in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). It is native to eastern, southern, and central Europe to the Caucasus. The epithet is Latin for “upright” and refers to the upright habit of this vine. Plant in full sun to partial shade and in moist, well-drained soil. The best flowering will occur in full sun. A hard pruning is recommended in early spring (Type 3). It is resistant to black walnut as well as deer and rabbits. Bush clematis grows to a maximum height of 6 feet and width of 4 feet and needs the support of a trellis or other plants; otherwise, it sprawls on the ground. The showy, fragrant, white flowers contain many stamens, and many small, dry fruits, each with a silky-plumose tail that adds interest in a fall garden. It is ideal for a border where it can be supported by other plants, in a container on a patio, or in a woodland where it can sprawl. Also use it in a butterfly, cottage, or pollinator garden where it will attract bees, butterflies, and songbirds. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for " Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers " a plant identification course offered 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
Propagation
Division; Seed
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