Clematis connata

Clematis connata is a deciduous climber in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Its native range runs from northern Pakistan to south-central China and Myanmar. Records also place it in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It grows in temperate regions. In the Himalayas, it lives in forests at middle elevations. It often grows beside streams. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This fast-growing vine can reach about 23 feet [7 metres]. New shoots can extend nearly 20 feet [6 metres] within one growing season. Its climbing growth uses leaf stalks that curl around supports. It loses its leaves for winter. Flowers appear from August to October. Each flower has both male and female organs. Bees and flies pollinate the flowers. Its strong growth needs space, and it may spread too freely.

Choose a warm, sheltered site with sun for good growth. The plant can also grow in light woodland shade. A sunny woodland edge or dappled shade suits its garden use. Keep the roots shaded and the soil moist. Give it plenty of water while it grows. Deep soil with good drainage suits it best. It tolerates both acid and alkaline ground. Avoid poorly drained, heavy clay and very light sand. Grit can improve drainage where clay would otherwise stay too wet. The listed USDA hardiness range is zones 5–9.

Clematis wilt is a concern when planting this species. PFAF advises setting the rootball about 3 inches [0.08 metres] below its former level. This also helps form a crown with more growth buds. Seed, cuttings, and layering offer ways to raise new plants. Sow fresh seed in a cold frame once ripe. Stored seed may benefit from a warm soak and cold treatment. Germination can take one to nine months, or longer. Keep young plants in a cold frame through their first winter. Plant them out after the last expected frost.

PFAF records no known edible uses for this species. It lists a traditional use of plant juice for sinusitis. That record does not establish that the treatment is safe or effective. The source reports no species-specific cases of poisoning. Its wider warning concerns other members of the genus. That warning does not establish this species' safety for people or pets.