SafePlants

Western White Clematis (Clematis ligusticifolia)

Clematis ligusticifolia, commonly known as Western White Clematis, is a captivating climbing vine native to North America. Its showy flowers and distinctive seed heads make it a notable addition to various landscapes.

Common Names

• Western White Clematis
• White Virgin's Bower
• Old Man's Beard
• Pepper Vine
• Traveler's Joy
• Yerba de Chiva
• Creek Clematis
• Western Virgin's Bower
• Deciduous Traveler's-joy

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Clematis ligusticifolia Nutt.
• Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)
• Synonyms: Clematis brevifolia
• Taxonomic Rank: Species, Variety (Clematis ligusticifolia Nutt. var. ligusticifolia and Clematis ligusticifolia var. brevifolia are mentioned)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to North America, particularly widespread across the western United States.
• Often found growing along the ground, clambering through bushes, or tangled into treetops.
• Prefers moist soil and can be found in shade to partial sun conditions.
• Specific mentions of its presence include Washington state, California, and Oregon.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A deciduous climber that can grow up to 5 meters (approximately 16 feet 5 inches).
• Features wide clusters of creamy-white blossoms arising from leaf axils.
• Flowers are typically 1 inch wide, with 4 creamy white, narrowly oblong-lanceolate sepals measuring 6-15 mm in length.
• Produces many seeds, each with a feathery plume, forming a white puffball seedhead.
• Twining stems make it suitable for climbing trellises or scrambling through trees.

Ecological Role

• The plant attracts bees and butterflies.
• Serves as a butterfly larval host.

Traditional Uses

• Historically used medicinally by various Native American groups, including the Costanoan, Dakota, and Gosiute.

Flowering and Fruiting

• Flowers from August to September.
• Seeds ripen after flowering.

Other Uses

• Has potential for erosion control, reclamation, and landscaping.

Considerations for Pets

• Medicinal, but toxic if ingested.

Quirky Facts

• The plant is sometimes referred to as "Old Man's Beard" due to its fluffy seed heads.