Nepal Clematis Clematis napaulensis
ABOUT
Clematis napaulensis, often known simply as the clematis, is a winter-flowering plant that is quite visually unique in its appearance. During the colder months, from late autumn to early spring, it springs to life with blossoms, while in the warmer months, it typically goes dormant. The color and shape of its flowers are particularly noteworthy. The clematis bears pendulous, bell-shaped flowers that come in a creamy-green hue. These blossoms dangle elegantly from the vine and can create a striking display against the plant's backdrop of leaves. The leaves of the clematis are themselves quite appealing and have a compound structure, meaning that each leaf is actually composed of several smaller leaflets. These leaflets generally have a toothed or jagged edge, providing a textured look to the foliage. In terms of color, the leaves usually exhibit a lush green tone, which can serve as a beautiful contrast to the pale flowers during the blooming season. Furthermore, as it matures, the clematis plant may produce seed heads that have a feathery appearance, which adds further interest to its aesthetic after the flowering period has concluded. This feature often makes the clematis a valued plant for gardeners who are looking to add a feature of interest to their garden throughout various seasons. Overall, the clematis is a plant that can bring a unique and attractive appearance to any garden setting without the emphasis on its size.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Nepal Clematis, Old Man's Beard, Evergreen Clematis.
Common names
Clematis napaulensis DC., Atragene nepalensis K.Koch, Clematis grata Wall.
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, specifically Clematis napaulensis, can be poisonous if ingested. As with other species in the Clematis genus, it contains toxic glycosides known as ranunculin, which can cause severe mouth pain, digestive upset, vomiting, and diarrhea if parts of the plant are eaten. Contact with the sap may also lead to skin irritation or dermatitis in some individuals. It is important to handle Clematis with care and ensure children do not consume any part of the plant.
To pets
Clematis, including Clematis napaulensis, is also toxic to pets like cats and dogs. The plant contains irritating glycosides that can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth irritation if ingested. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious issues such as weakness or lethargy due to the gastrointestinal distress it causes. Pet owners should prevent their pets from having access to this plant to avoid possible poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Cream
Height
15 feet (4.57 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Himalayas
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Clematis napaulensis, also known as winter clematis, has vibrant green foliage and charming clusters of bell-shaped flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: Winter clematis blooms during late winter or early spring, providing color and interest during a season when few other plants flower.
- Climbing Habit: As a climbing vine, winter clematis can cover trellises, arbors, and walls, offering vertical interest and helping to maximize the use of garden space.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of winter clematis attract pollinators such as bees, which are beneficial for the ecosystem and garden pollination.
- Shade Tolerance: This species can tolerate partial shade, making it a versatile choice for garden spots that do not receive full sunlight.
- Screening: When grown on structures, winter clematis can provide a natural screen, offering privacy and helping to block undesirable views.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis napaulensis, often known as Nepal Clematis, can be used for creating natural dyes for textiles, with the varying plant parts providing different hues.
- The vine of Nepal Clematis could potentially be used in basket weaving or crafting similar items due to its lengthy and flexible stems.
- Gardeners can cultivate Nepal Clematis for a living privacy screen, as its dense foliage can obscure views effectively throughout its growing season.
- The plant's ornamental value adds aesthetic enhancement to landscapes, particularly suited for arbors and pergolas due to its climbing habit.
- Nepal Clematis can be used as a tool for educational purposes in botanical gardens and horticulture programs to demonstrate the growth patterns of climbing plants.
- Its ability to climb and cover unsightly features makes Nepal Clematis suitable for garden renovations and for concealing features like compost bins or old walls.
- Innovative chefs could explore using the petals of Nepal Clematis in culinary presentations, although they must ensure the plant parts used are non-toxic.
- The dense growth habit of Nepal Clematis provides natural habitats and protection for small garden fauna, such as certain bird species.
- During the plant's non-flowering period, the intricate pattern of the vine's stems can add a unique textural element to winter gardens.
- Its seed heads, which persist into winter, can be used in dried flower arrangements or for decorative purposes inside homes and at events.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Old Man's Beard is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Old Man's Beard is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: Clematis napaulensis, often dormant in winter, symbolizes perseverance as it overcomes dormancy to bloom.
- Mental Beauty: Known for its ornate flowers, the plant is associated with the beauty of the mind and inner thoughts.
- Ingeniousness: The plant's climbing nature represents inventive or clever thinking, finding pathways even in difficult circumstances.
WaterThe Clematis napaulensis, commonly known as Nepal Clematis, prefers consistent moisture and should not be allowed to dry out completely. Water the plant deeply once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water, ensuring the soil is thoroughly saturated. During hot or dry spells, increase watering frequency to twice a week, while in cooler or wetter conditions, reduce watering accordingly. It's crucial not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Adjustments should be made based on the plant's appearance and the weather, rather than on a strict schedule.
LightNepal Clematis thrives best in a location that offers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so choose a spot that provides some shelter during the hottest part of the day. A position that enjoys morning sun and afternoon shade is often ideal for this plant, ensuring it receives adequate light without the risk of intense heat exposure.
TemperatureNepal Clematis performs optimally in a temperate range, preferring temperatures between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant can tolerate a minimum temperature down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum up to around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Protecting it from extreme cold and frost is crucial, as it may not survive temperatures that drop significantly below the minimum threshold.
PruningPruning Nepal Clematis is essential for promoting strong growth and increasing flowering. Prune lightly in early spring, removing dead or weak stems and shaping the plant as desired. The best time for major pruning is after the plant has finished blooming, focusing on cutting back the flowering stems to a strong set of buds. Annual or biennial pruning will help maintain the plant's health and vigor.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClematis napaulensis, commonly known as Nepal Clematis, prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of loamy soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand would create an ideal environment for this plant. The soil pH should be slightly alkaline to neutral, in the range of 7.0 to 7.5.
RepottingNepal Clematis typically needs to be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish the soil and accommodate root growth. Ensure you are doing this during the dormant season to minimize stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingNepal Clematis thrives best in moderate humidity levels. Maintaining around 50-60% relative humidity will help this plant flourish without promoting any diseases associated with higher humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright, indirect light and ensure air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis napaulensis, commonly known as Nepal Clematis, begins its life as a dormant seed which requires stratification, a cold period to break its dormancy. Upon germination in early spring, the seedling emerges and starts to develop a root system and foliage, entering a vegetative state. As it matures, it becomes a climbing vine, using tendrils to grasp onto supports and growing vigorously during the warmer months. By late summer or early autumn, the plant produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers, which are sometimes followed by silvery-plumed seed heads that are distributed by wind, allowing for dispersal. After flowering, the plant enters a period of senescence where leaves and vines die back, especially in areas with colder winters, retreating to the root base. The cycle resumes the next spring, when new growth emerges from the rootstock, given that the plant is a perennial and can live for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Winter to early spring
Propogation: Clematis napaulensis, commonly known as the winter blooming clematis, is best propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings during its growth period in the summer months. To propagate by cuttings, one would select a healthy piece of stem from the current year's growth that has begun to harden but is not yet woody. This cutting, typically about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length with a couple of leaf nodes, would then be dipped in rooting hormone powder or gel to enhance root development. The bottom cut should be made just below a leaf node, and the lower leaves removed. The prepared cutting is then placed in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix, watering it thoroughly and maintaining a humid environment to encourage rooting. During this stage, it's crucial to maintain consistent moisture levels without overwatering and to provide indirect sunlight and protection from extreme temperatures until the new clematis plant is well established and ready for transplanting.
