Juniper-leaf Clematis
clematis integrifolia
Also known as: ["Blue Virgin's Bower","Juniper-leaved Clematis"]
Overview
A deciduous, herbaceous climber with attractive blue or purple flowers and pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Clematis |
| Botanical Name: | Clematis integrifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with support for climbing, or container with trellis
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, just after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adaptable to dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights; sensitive to extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after pruning; avoid over-fertilizing; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood); layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or liquid can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take a full growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a pair of healthy buds; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove dead or weak stems; shape plant as desired.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged stems; shape plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; focus on the root zone; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during growing season; reduce frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat; leaf drop or dormancy in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, or enter dormancy; roots can suffer in poorly drained soil during freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from frost with a cover; ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth can become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH; use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter; dilute to half-strength to avoid root burn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Clematis integrifolia if ingested. The plant's toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Clematis integrifolia by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and other toxic effects. The plant's compounds are irritant and can cause significant discomfort in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicClematis integrifolia contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's irritant properties can lead to significant physiological discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I prune Clematis integrifolia?
A: Prune lightly in early spring, removing dead or weak stems to encourage bushier growth.
Q: Does Clematis integrifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Clematis integrifolia toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing mild gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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