Clematis

Vasevine, Leather flower, Virgin's bower, Traveller's joy, Old man's beard

Message of the Flower

Sentry

The Mother’s Comment

Ever awake.

Spiritual Message by the Mother/ Quotes by Sri Aurobindo

Vigilance means to be awake, to be on one's guard, to be sincere—never to be taken by surprise. When you want to do sadhana, at each moment of your life, there is a choice between taking a step that leads to the goal and falling asleep or sometimes even going backwards, telling yourself, "Oh, later on, not immediately"—sitting down on the way.

The Mother, Questions and Answers 1929 - 1931: Vigilance

Colour

White

Family

Ranunclaceae

Cultivars

Jackmanii', 'Nelly Moser', 'Henryi', and more.

Person who named the flower

Carl Linnaeus

Flower Size

Flowers can range from small (about 1-2 inches) to large (up to 8 inches or more in diameter) depending on the species and cultivar.

Flower Texture

Petals can range from smooth to slightly textured.

Number of Petals

Varies by species and cultivar, from 4 to many in double forms.

Floral Symmetry

Mostly radial symmetry.

Fragrance of Flower

Some species and cultivars are fragrant.

Leaf Texture

Generally smooth, but can vary.

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite or whorled.

Leaf Color

Mostly green, but some cultivars may have variegated leaves.

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

Mostly climbing vines, but some species are shrubby.

Life Cycle

Perennial in most cases.

Blooming Period

Varies widely; some bloom in spring, others in summer or fall.

Climate

Temperate to subtropical; hardiness varies by species and cultivar.

Water Requirements

Moderate; requires well-drained soil.

Soil Type

Prefers moist, well-drained soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH.

Temperature Ranges

Varies; some species are frost-tolerant, while others prefer warmer conditions.

Sun or Shade

Prefers full sun to part shade, with roots shaded.

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

Susceptible to clematis wilt, powdery mildew, and pests like aphids and spider mites.

Pollinators

Bees, butterflies, and other insects.

Habitat

Native habitats vary widely; found in forests, streambanks, and open areas.

Role in the Ecosystem

Provide nectar for pollinators; some species used as food plants by butterfly larvae.

Ornamental

Widely used in gardens for their flowers

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Primarily ornamental, some ecological benefits

Endangered Status

Some species may be at risk in their native habitats