Freckle Clematis
clematis cirrhosa
Also known as: ["Freckled Clematis","Winter Clematis"]
Overview
A deciduous or semi-evergreen climbing vine with nodding, bell-shaped flowers and attractive seed heads.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Clematis |
| Botanical Name: | Clematis cirrhosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a sheltered garden spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- 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, after flowering in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth and any dead or damaged stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun with afternoon protection; adjust for winter by providing more light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade in afternoon; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of loam, peat, and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures; avoid extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply 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), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a pair of healthy buds; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.
Pruning Plan
Encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering; remove dead or weak stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers (for thicker stems), clean pruning saw (for large stems).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged stems; shape plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure good drainage with a layer of gravel or broken pottery.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; repot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning, stunted growth, bud drop, or wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in severe frost; roots are sensitive to freezing.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in severe cold; ensure good air circulation to prevent rot.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or dormancy in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicClematis cirrhosa is toxic to cats, causing severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's toxic compounds can lead to significant health issues requiring urgent veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Clematis cirrhosa by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and systemic toxicity. The plant's irritant compounds can cause significant distress and require prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicClematis cirrhosa contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The plant's irritant properties affect the gastrointestinal and nervous systems, leading to discomfort and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I prune Clematis cirrhosa?
A: Prune lightly after flowering to remove dead or weak stems.
Q: Does Clematis cirrhosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Clematis cirrhosa toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
