Clematis virginiana

Clematis virginiana is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. It is native to eastern North America, including the United States and Canada. Common names for this plant include Virgin's Bower, Devil's Darning Needles, and Old Man's Beard.

Description

Clematis virginiana is a deciduous, climbing vine that can reach lengths of up to 20 feet. The leaves are opposite, pinnately compound, and have a serrated margin. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, appearing in clusters from mid-summer to early fall. The fruit is an achene with a long, feathery style, which gives the plant its common name, Old Man's Beard.

Habitat and Distribution

Clematis virginiana is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and streambanks. It is tolerant of a range of soil conditions, but prefers moist, well-drained soil. The plant is found throughout the eastern United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas and North Dakota. It is also found in eastern Canada, from New Brunswick to Ontario.

Cultivation and Uses

Clematis virginiana is often used in landscaping for its attractive flowers and feathery seed heads. It is also used in restoration projects due to its ability to stabilize soil and provide habitat for wildlife. The plant has been used in traditional medicine by Native American tribes, although it is toxic if ingested in large amounts.

Conservation Status

Clematis virginiana is not currently considered threatened or endangered. However, like all native plants, it is susceptible to habitat loss due to development and invasive species.

See Also

• Clematis
• Ranunculaceae
• Flora of North America

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