Clematis recta aka Ground Virginsbower

Clematis recta is a perennial in the buttercup family. Its common names include bush clematis and ground virginsbower. Its native range runs from Europe to the Caucasus. It grows in scrub, woods, river valleys, and sunny hills. Unlike many climbing clematis, it forms an upright clump. Its stems need support from nearby plants or a trellis. Without support, they spread across the ground.

The RHS gives a height of 3.3–4.9 feet [1–1.5 metres]. Its stated spread is 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. NC State reports a broader range of 2–6 feet [0.6–1.8 metres] tall. It also gives widths of 2–4 feet [0.6–1.2 metres]. Growth is slow, and plants lose their leaves each year. The green or blue-green leaves consist of several leaflets. They sit in opposite pairs along the stems. The pinnate leaves have five to nine leaflets.

Small white flowers form loose clusters at the stem tips. Each scented flower measures less than one inch across. The flowers have four to eight petal-like parts and many stamens. Chicago Botanic Garden records flowering in May and June. The RHS describes a season from early through late summer. Bees and butterflies visit the plant, which also attracts birds. Brown achenes follow the flowers and add autumn interest. Each small, dry fruit carries a long, feathery tail.

Grow it in sun or partial shade for best results. Full sun gives the strongest flowering. It needs moist soil that drains well. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and chalk across several pH levels. Keep the roots cool and shade the plant's base. Set the crown level with the soil surface. Cut all stems down before spring growth begins. Divide clumps in spring, and mulch without covering the crown. Sources give USDA zones 3–9 and RHS hardiness H6. Use it in borders, containers, woodland groundcover, or pollinator gardens.

NC State reports few major problems and resistance to deer and rabbits. The RHS lists aphids, snails, caterpillars, and petal-eating earwigs. Possible diseases include clematis wilt, slime flux, and rare honey fungus. The plant can irritate skin and poison people and pets. Eating it can cause mouth pain and other serious symptoms. PFAF records cooked or pickled young shoots but warns of poisoning. It also records medicinal uses; these do not establish safety. Wear gloves when handling the plant.