Balearic Clematis Clematis cirrhosa var. balearica
ABOUT
Clematis cirrhosa var. balearica, commonly known as Balearic clematis, is a flowering plant that presents a delicate and ornamental appearance. This variety of clematis is characterized by its evergreen foliage, which remains lush and vibrant throughout the year. The leaves are compound, with each leaf consisting of a central stem that branches out into smaller leaflets. These leaflets are typically rounded and may exhibit a glossy surface, adding a touch of brightness to the plant's overall texture. The most striking attribute of Balearic clematis is its blossoms, which tend to appear during cooler months when few other plants are in flower. The blooms are nodding and fairly dainty, typically displaying a creamy-white base color. Each flower comprises four petal-like structures, which are technically sepals, often adorned with a sprinkling of freckle-like spots in a pale shade of green or pink. The flowers exude a gentle, pleasing fragrance, which can attract bees and other pollinators to the garden. Adding to the visual interest, as the flowers mature, they give way to feathery seed heads that provide additional decorative texture to the plant's display. The combination of its evergreen foliage and its propensity to bloom in the cooler seasons makes Balearic clematis a valued addition to many gardens, offering both year-long foliage and unexpected winter color.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Balearic Clematis, Fern-leafed Clematis, Evergreen Clematis, Winter-flowering Clematis
Common names
Clematis balearica, Atragene balearica
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Clematis cirrhosa var. balearica is Balearic clematis. This plant, like many other species in the Clematis genus, contains compounds that are toxic to humans. These can cause Clematis poisoning when ingested. Symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. In some cases, contact with the skin may result in dermatitis. The toxicity is primarily due to irritant glycosides found in the plant, which can lead to the aforementioned gastrointestinal problems if parts of the plant are ingested.
To pets
The Balearic clematis is also toxic to pets. If ingested by animals such as cats, dogs, or horses, it can cause similar symptoms as seen in humans, including nausea, drooling, vomiting, and possibly diarrhea. It is important to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting parts of this plant due to its potential to cause gastrointestinal upset and irritation.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Cream
Height
8 feet (2.4 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Clematis balearica adds aesthetic beauty to gardens with its delicate flowers and attractive foliage.
- Winter Blooms: It flowers in the winter, providing color and interest in gardens during the colder months when most plants are dormant.
- Wildlife Attraction: The plant can attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, enhancing local biodiversity.
- Screening: Can be used to create natural screens or garden dividers, offering privacy and a visual barrier when grown on trellises or fences.
- Versatility: Suitable for training on walls, pergolas, and arbors, which makes it a versatile addition to many garden designs.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis cirrhosa var. balearica, commonly known as Balearic clematis, can be used for ornamental purposes to create winter interest in gardens, as it blooms in the cooler months when few other plants flower.
- Balearic clematis is suitable for espaliered growth on walls or fences, providing a decorative green screen and habitat for some bird species during the winter.
- The plant can be grown in containers on patios or balconies, offering a splash of color and natural aesthetics to urban outdoor spaces.
- Its vine-like structure allows Balearic clematis to be used in combination with arbors or pergolas to create living canopies and shaded areas in the landscape.
- The dried or fresh flowers of Balearic clematis are sometimes incorporated into floral arrangements and winter bouquets, bringing unique texture and soft colors.
- With its winter flowering habit, the plant can provide a late-season nectar source for bees and other pollinators when resources are scarce.
- In artistic projects, the delicate vines and flowers of Balearic clematis can be utilized for botanical illustration and photography during the winter season.
- Due to its climbing nature, this variety of clematis can be used in garden designs to add vertical interest, drawing the eye upwards and maximizing the use of space.
- When used in larger landscape compositions, Balearic clematis can provide a contrast in texture to broad-leaved evergreens and winter grasses.
- The plant may also be used in educational settings, such as school gardens, to teach about the diversity of flowering seasons and the importance of supporting pollinators year-round.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practices.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mental Agility: The clematis is known to symbolize intellectual and creative endeavors, owing to its complex structure and the intricate way it climbs.
- Spiritual Quest: Due to its reaching vines, the clematis can represent a person's aspiration to reach for something beyond the mundane, spiritual enlightenment or the unconscious mind.
- Artistic Inspiration: As a plant that blooms even in the chill of winter, the Clematis cirrhosa var. balearica can be an emblem of artistry and the continuous drive for creativity regardless of circumstances.
- Ingenuity: The adaptability and resilience of the clematis in various conditions suggest the trait of ingenuity, where one makes the most out of their resources and situation.
WaterFern-leaf clematis requires regular watering to ensure the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged. During the growing season, typically spring and summer, water the plant thoroughly once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant, depending on the climate and weather conditions. In periods of drought or extreme heat, check the soil more frequently and water when the top inch feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering in the fall and winter to every two to three weeks, provided rainfall does not keep the soil moist.
LightFern-leaf clematis thrives in a location where it can receive full sun to part shade. Ideally, it should be planted where the roots are shaded but the foliage can bask in the sun, such as at the base of a shrub or with a mulch covering the root zone. In hotter climates, it benefits from afternoon shade to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureFern-leaf clematis prefers a temperate climate and can survive in a range with a minimum temperature of around 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for this plant would be between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit where it would flourish the most.
PruningPruning fern-leaf clematis is important for encouraging strong growth and flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Remove any dead or weak stems, and cut back the remaining stems to a strong set of buds. This plant blooms on the previous year's growth, so avoid heavy pruning in late spring or summer to preserve the flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Balearic clematis should be well-draining with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, between 7.0 and 7.5. A mixture of loamy soil enriched with compost and a bit of coarse sand or perlite will provide the necessary drainage and nutrition. Mulching can help maintain an ideal soil environment.
RepottingBalearic clematis should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the plant has outgrown its current container. It's best to repot in the spring just before the active growth period.
Humidity & MistingBalearic clematis prefers moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor environments. It is not particularly demanding regarding humidity, but if grown indoors, the air should not be too dry, akin to an average home environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and cool temperatures for indoor Balearic clematis.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to part shade, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis cirrhosa var. balearica, commonly known as Balearic clematis, begins its life cycle as a seed which, when sown in well-draining soil and exposed to the necessary stratification, will germinate and sprout. The seedling stage follows, during which the plant develops its first true leaves and a strong root system. As it matures into a young plant, it exhibits rapid vegetative growth and the development of long, climbing vines that seek out support structures or other plants to grow upon. The Balearic clematis typically flowers in the late winter to early spring, displaying creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers with speckled red or purple markings, which are followed by the development of feathery seed heads. After pollination, seeds are produced which can be dispersed by the wind, allowing the plant to spread and begin new life cycles. This clematis variety has a perennial life cycle, entering a period of dormancy in the summer before reemerging with new growth in the autumn.
PropogationPropogation time
Autumn to Spring
The most popular method of propagation for Clematis cirrhosa var. balearica, commonly known as Balearic clematis, is by semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique usually takes place during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. To propagate Balearic clematis by cuttings, a gardener should select a healthy stem and cut a portion that includes several sets of leaves. The cutting should be about 4 inches (approximately 10 centimeters) in length. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then inserted into a well-draining potting mix and kept moist under indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can eventually be transplanted outdoors.
