Clematis vitalba aka Old Man's Beard

Taxonomy

Clematis vitalba, also known as old man's beard and traveller's joy, is a wild European species within the Ranunculaceae family. This exceptionally robust and healthy plant blooms with small, white, star-shaped flowers and develops giant vine-lianas, making it a popular choice for building greening projects. Its leafy, vital, and drought-resistant nature makes it suitable for high greening projects, such as concrete facades, poles, or masts. Clematis vitalba can provide accents and interesting contrasts in a designed or engineered environment. On the other hand, Evergreen Clematis, belonging to the Clematis genus and native to Europe, is a rare houseplant that requires regular watering. It thrives best in long-lasting, direct light and should be less than a foot away from a window. This plant prefers soil that is good at retaining moisture, and it doesn't need added fertilizers if you repot each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Old Man's Beard, Traveler's Joy

How to care for Old Man's Beard

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Old Man's Beard is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Old Man's Beard should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

When growing Old Man's Beard, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Old Man's Beard with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Old Man's Beard from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Traveler's Joy regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Old Man's Beard will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

Old Man's Beard requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Traveler's Joy will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Old Man's Beard is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Old Man's Beard’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from the Netherlands south and east to N. Africa and the Caucasus.


More info:
Wikipedia