No images found for this plant ID: 2949.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "2949" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
old man's beard
Scientific Name: Arthrostylidium farctum
Family: Poaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid, Shrub, Vine
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Clematis vitalba: Old Man's Beard and More
Clematis vitalba, a member of the Ranunculaceae family, is known by several common names, including Old Man's Beard and Traveller's Joy. This vigorous climber is noted for its rapid growth and ability to cover other plants extensively.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant is a vigorous climber, potentially reaching significant lengths.
- It uses its leaf stalks (petioles) to climb and can form a tangled mass.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Clematis vitalba
- Family: Ranunculaceae
- Common Names: Old Man's Beard, Traveller's Joy, Virgin's Bower, Wild Clematis
Distribution and Habitat
- Commonly found in hedgerows.
- Can be an indicator of chalky soil.
- Has been declared a pest plant in New Zealand.
Ecological Role
- Known for its vigorous growth and ability to smother other plants.
- Classified as an "unwanted organism" in New Zealand due to its lack of natural predators.
Morphological Characteristics
- Deciduous, woody climber.
- Woody stems can grow to over 10 meters in length and reach 15-20 cm in diameter.
- Creamy white, almond-scented flowers bloom from July to August.
Quirky Facts
- Old Man's Beard was once described as doing "the Devil's work" due to its habit of choking other plants.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Climbs over other plants using its leaf stalks (petioles).
- Can completely blanket trees and shrubs, potentially killing them.
Additional Information
- More information may be available at woodlands.co.uk.
- An article about Old Man's Beard has been published in "The Clematis."