Clematis virginiana

An adaptable native vining plant that can grow up to 20 feet in a year, Virgin’s Bower climbs by twisting leaf stalks rather than attaching to surfaces. Showy flowers bloom for a month, and female plants then exhibit stunning feathery plumes into winter which give it another common name, Old Man’s Beard. All parts of the plant are poisonous to humans, and can cause minor skin irritation lasting a few minutes. It has been used by the Iroquois and Cherokee for treatment of various ailments and to induce hallucinations. Provides forage for hummingbirds, butterflies, flies, and bees; host plant to the Clematis Clearwing Moth (Alcathoe caudata).

Seed for this plant was collected within 250 miles of Arthur’s Point Farm.

Zone: 3-9 (Map)
Habitat:  Adaptable: full sun to shade, dry or moist soil
Growth: 2’ at base, 10’ long vines