Clematis terniflora aka Sweet Autumn Clematis

Taxonomy

Clematis terniflora, also known as sweet autumn clematis or sweet autumn virginsbower, is a plant in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Native to northeastern Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Russia (Siberia), and Taiwan, it was introduced to the United States as an ornamental garden plant in the late 1800s. Since then, it has naturalized in many eastern states and is considered a Category II invasive plant in Florida and some other eastern states. This strong and vigorous deciduous climber can grow up to 6 meters tall or more. It has hairy stems that become semi-woody with age. The dark green leaves are divided into leaflets and carried on long leaf stalks. The plant produces large clusters of small fragrant, single, star-shaped, white flowers with cream anthers. These flowers, about 3cm across, bloom from late summer to autumn, creating a beautiful display. After flowering, attractive seedheads form. Sweet autumn clematis is a fast-growing vine that can reach lengths of 20-25 feet if given support. Its twining stems use tendrilous leaf petioles to climb. However, if left unsupported, it will sprawl along the ground and form a dense, tangled ground cover, often suppressing weeds. The plant blooms profusely from late August to October, covering the foliage with aromatic, pure white flowers. These flowers give way to plume-like seed heads. The compound leaves are leathery-textured, shiny green, and consist of 3-5 oval to elliptic leaflets with cordate bases. While sweet autumn clematis adds beauty to gardens, it can also be an aggressive self-seeder, potentially invading native plant communities. Its ability to naturalize and spread has led to its classification as an invasive plant in some areas.

Common names

Sweet Autumn Clematis, Yam Leaf Clematis, Sweet Autumn Virginsbower

How to care for Sweet Autumn Clematis

Difficulty

Sweet Autumn Clematis presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Sweet Autumn Clematis should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Sweet Autumn Clematis, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Yam Leaf Clematis is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Sweet Autumn Clematis will thrive!

Lighting

Sweet Autumn Clematis thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Sweet Autumn Virginsbower.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Sweet Autumn Clematis to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Fertilizer

The Sweet Autumn Clematis is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Region of origin

Sweet Autumn Clematis’s native range is E. Asia - China, Japan.


More info:
Wikipedia