SafePlants

Clematis macropetala

Also known as Downy Clematis, Clematis macropetala is a vigorous and hardy deciduous climber prized for its early spring blooms.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has "divided toothed leaves," and "silver seed heads" which might be a physical consideration.

Considerations for Children

• The plant has "divided toothed leaves," and "silver seed heads" which might be a physical consideration.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Clematis macropetala
• Common Name: Downy Clematis
• The plant belongs to the family Ranunculaceae.
• Synonym: var. albiflora (Maximowicz ex Kuntze) Handel- Mazzetti
• It is also categorized within the Atragene Group, which includes alpina, koreana, and chiisanensis clematis species.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to northern China and eastern Mongolia.
• Introduced to the UK in 1910.
• Can be found growing wild in its native regions.
• Thrives in Zone 4 and even survives up to the Arctic Circle.
• Successfully grows in Alaska.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• A strong climbing plant that can reach up to 10 feet with support. Some varieties can grow up to 2-4m.
• Flowers prolifically from late spring through early summer.
• Produces bell-shaped, nodding flowers that are typically violet-blue but also come in shades of blue, pink, purple, and white depending on the variety.
• Flowers are often double.
• Followed by silver seed heads.

Cultivation

• Prefers full sun or partial shade.
• Suitable for most types of garden soil.
• Requires fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil.
• Roots should be kept cool, shaded, and uniformly moist.
• Needs excellent drainage.

Quirky Facts

• Can withstand temperatures down to -40 degrees.
• Some varieties are suitable for ground cover.

Varieties

• 'Wesselton'
• 'Lagoon'
• 'Jan Lindmark'
• 'Blue Bird'
• 'Pauline'
• 'Markham's Pink'
• 'Purple Spider'
• 'Propertius'
• 'Maidwell Hall'
• Snowbird

Further Resources

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)