Wilson's clematis Clematis montana var. wilsonii
ABOUT
Clematis montana var. wilsonii, commonly known as anemone clematis, is a visually striking climbing plant renowned for its profusion of flowers and vigorous growth habit. This plant presents a stunning appearance, beginning with its stems that twine and climb, lending support to its sprawling nature. The leaves of the anemone clematis showcase a rich green hue and are often compound, featuring multiple leaflets emanating from a central point, which gives them a lush and full-bodied texture. This lush foliage provides a perfect backdrop for the plant's most captivating feature—its blossoms. The flowers are a treat to behold, typically appearing as a sheet of bloom. Each individual flower is composed of four petal-like structures known as sepals, which are delicate and tend to overlap each other. These sepals are commonly white to pale pink, enveloping the center of the blossom that holds a tuft of prominent, creamy yellow stamens, creating a striking contrast that is pleasing to the eye. Adding to its ornamental value, the anemone clematis emits a delightful fragrance, which becomes more noticeable as the day turns to evening, attracting pollinators and adding a layer of sensory appeal to the garden. Spring through early summer, the anemone clematis is in its full glory, casting a cascading floral display that can transform arbors, trellises, and walls into living tapestries dressed in soft, pastel hues. The visual impact of this plant is magnified by its tendency to bloom prolifically, making it a cherished addition to any garden that aims to inspire through natural beauty.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Wilson's Clematis, Montana Clematis, Anemone Clematis
Common names
Clematis montana var. wilsonii.
ToxicityTo humans
Anemone clematis contains compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains protoanemonin, which is irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. If any part of anemone clematis is eaten, it may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. In severe cases, ingestion can cause mouth and throat irritation, leading to difficulty speaking or swallowing. Always handle with care and wash your hands afterward to avoid accidental ingestion or skin irritation.
To pets
Anemone clematis is also toxic to pets and can cause similar symptoms as in humans when ingested. Protoanemonin, the irritant compound found in the plant, can lead to excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and in some cases, seizures or tremors in pets. It is particularly harmful to dogs, cats, and horses. To ensure pet safety, keep anemone clematis out of reach and monitor pets when they are in an area where the plant grows. Seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
30 feet (9 meters)
Spread
20 feet (6 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Clematis montana var. wilsonii, commonly known as Anemone Clematis, adds visual interest to gardens with its abundant, star-shaped white flowers.
- Fragrance: The flowers emit a pleasant vanilla-like fragrance that can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Spring Bloomer: It produces blossoms in the late spring, providing a burst of color after the dull winter months.
- Climbing Growth Habit: As a climbing vine, it can be used to cover walls, trellises, or fences, providing vertical interest in landscape design.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: It is known for being hardy and easy to care for, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Fast Growth: This variety can grow rapidly once established, covering large areas relatively quickly.
- Large Coverage: They can be used effectively to cover unsightly structures or create privacy screens in garden spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clematis montana var. wilsonii, known as anemone clematis, can be used to create natural screens or dividers in a garden due to its dense foliage.
- Anemone clematis can serve as a backdrop for showcasing other plants, its dark green leaves accentuating the colors of flowers planted in front of it.
- With proper training, anemone clematis can be groomed into interesting shapes and structures, such as arches or columns, for garden art.
- The vine can be used in large container gardens to add vertical interest and provide a background contrast for trailing plants.
- Anemone clematis is sometimes used to cover unsightly features in the landscape, such as old stumps or debris piles.
- During autumn, when leaves start to fall, the twisting vines of anemone clematis can add a rustic charm to the garden's aesthetic.
- The plant can be employed to create living tunnels or walkways when trained over an appropriate framework, making whimsical garden passages.
- Anemone clematis can be used in a wildlife garden to offer hiding spots and nesting material for birds and small mammals.
- Some gardeners use this plant to create thematic garden sections, as its profuse blossoms can contribute to a romantic or cottage-style setting.
- The fast-growing nature of anemone clematis allows it to be used for quick coverage and to achieve a mature garden look in a shorter timeframe.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Ingeniousness and Intelligence: Clematis plants are often associated with ingenuity due to their intricate and skillful way of climbing and supporting themselves, indicative of mental prowess.
- Spiritual Ascension: Because clematis vines climb upwards, they are frequently seen as symbols of spiritual growth and the quest for higher knowledge.
- Artistic Inspiration: The clematis' beautiful blooms are thought to symbolize the beauty of art and the inspiration it provides to creators and artists.
- Mental Beauty: As a plant known for its stunning flowers, clematis can denote an appreciation for inner beauty and the value of thought and intellect over physical appearance.
WaterAnemone Clematis, commonly known as Clematis montana var. wilsonii, should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is thoroughly moistened. During the growing season, it may require additional water, amounting to about 1 gallon per plant each week, depending on the weather conditions. If you're in a particularly hot or dry climate, check the top inch of soil for dryness and water accordingly. In cooler climates or during periods of rain, you may need to reduce the frequency to prevent overwatering. It's essential to avoid letting this clematis dry out completely, as this can stress the plant.
LightAnemone Clematis thrives best in a location where it receives full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should have at least six hours of sunlight each day. A spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is optimal, as it protects the plant from the intense heat of the late day sun. Ensure that the location receives bright but indirect light if full sun conditions cannot be met.
TemperatureAnemone Clematis can survive temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. To thrive, it prefers a temperature range between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It's essential to protect this plant from freezing temperatures and heavy frosts which can cause significant damage.
PruningPruning of Anemone Clematis is generally done to shape the plant, remove dead or weak stems, and promote vigorous growth. It should be pruned in early spring, as this variety is a spring bloomer. Cut back the previous year's growth to a pair of strong buds about 6-12 inches above ground level. This encourages fresh growth and flower production.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAnemone Clematis thrives in well-draining soil with a pH around 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, compost, and well-rotted manure creates an ideal environment for growth, providing nutrients and adequate drainage to prevent root rot. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool.
RepottingAnemone Clematis typically does not require frequent repotting; it can be done every 3-4 years. Repot in spring before new growth begins, using a larger pot to accommodate root growth and refresh the soil mix.
Humidity & MistingAnemone Clematis prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Outdoor plants generally get enough humidity from the natural environment, and indoor plants benefit from the occasional misting to replicate these conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and consider using a trellis for support.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with some afternoon shade and provide a trellis.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis montana var. Wilsonii, commonly known as Wilson's Clematis, starts its life cycle with seed germination which requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Once sprouted, the young seedlings establish a root system and begin to develop long, climbing stems with compound leaves. In the vegetative stage, the plant vigorously grows and climbs using tendrils to support itself on structures or other plants. As it matures, Wilson's Clematis enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, producing numerous fragrant, four-petaled white flowers. After pollination, these flowers develop into feathery seed heads that contain the seeds for the next generation. Over time, this perennial plant will enter a phase of dormancy during the colder months, only to rejuvenate and repeat the cycle in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Clematis montana var. wilsonii, commonly known as Wilson's clematis, is typically propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken during the summer. To do this, a gardener would select a healthy piece of stem around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long from the current year's growth. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut is made just beneath a node, as this is where the highest concentration of rooting hormones is found. The cutting is then dipped in a rooting hormone powder or solution for better root development. After that, the cutting is planted in a well-drained potting mix, ensuring that at least one node is buried where roots and potentially shoots will form. The pot is then kept in a well-lit place out of direct sunlight and regularly misted to maintain high humidity levels around the cutting until roots have developed, which could take several weeks. Once the roots are established, the new Wilson's clematis plant can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions and eventually planted out in the garden.
