Clematis vitalba aka Old Man's Beard

Clematis vitalba is a strong-growing vine in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Its common names include traveller's joy and old man's beard. Its native range spans Europe, North Africa and southwest Asia, reaching Afghanistan. It is native to Britain and Ireland. In the wild, it grows in hedges and woodland margins. It often grows on soils rich in lime.

This deciduous climber sheds its leaves each year. The leaves range from mid-green to dark green. Garden plants reach about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. The RHS also describes plants climbing beyond 23 feet [7 metres]. Plants take about five to ten years to reach full size. Its strong growth suits sites with space for a large vine.

Small flowers grow in clusters from midsummer into early autumn. Each flower has four creamy-white parts, tinged with green. White stamens stand out in the centre of each bloom. Silky seedheads follow the flowers and remain for a long time. These give the plant interest after its flowers fade. The RHS lists it for informal, coastal and wildlife gardens. It also lists the flowers for cutting. Its stems have a traditional use in basket making.

This species grows in sun, partial shade or full shade. It accepts chalk, clay, loam and sandy soils. It also tolerates acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. Moist soil with good drainage suits it. The RHS lists both exposed and sheltered sites as suitable. It rates the plant H6 for UK hardiness. Plants For A Future gives USDA zones 4–8. The RHS places it in clematis pruning group 3. Seed, cuttings and layering offer ways to raise new plants. Plants For A Future flags its potential to become weedy.

Aphids, snails and caterpillars may attack the plant. Earwigs may chew the flower parts. Possible diseases include clematis wilt and clematis slime flux. Honey fungus occurs less often. Handle this plant with gloves, as it can irritate skin. It is also harmful to rabbits if eaten. Plants For A Future warns that all parts are poisonous. It records cooked young shoots as a food, but urges caution. These food records do not remove the poisoning risk. It also records medicinal uses, while warning against internal use.