Ground Clematis

clematis recta

Also known as: ["Ground Virginsbower","Ground Clematis"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Clematis Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous, sprawling shrub-like clematis with fragrant white flowers and attractive seed heads.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ranunculales
Family: Ranunculaceae
Genus: Clematis
Botanical Name: Clematis recta

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden border, trellis, or as a ground cover in partial shade
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove one-third of old growth and any dead stems.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust based on seasonal light intensity.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun; provide dappled shade in extreme heat.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate pots for even light exposure.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid waterlogging.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids prolonged frost.

Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid late-season fertilization.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood stem cuttings in late spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), 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 root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–4 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems back to a pair of healthy buds; thin out crowded growth to improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Prune to encourage bushy growth and abundant flowering; remove dead or weak stems annually.

Tools

Sharp bypass pruners, pruning saw for thick stems, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune before active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape plant evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh soil with improved drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Use fresh potting mix; check for root-bound condition; prune roots if needed; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for weather conditions.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, conserving moisture and reducing leaf wetness.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-mixed.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Stems may become brittle, growth halts, and frost can damage tender tissues.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect with frost cloth; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply during active growth; dilute properly; avoid over-fertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Clematis recta may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as iron or nitrogen, or could be a sign of root issues, pests, or diseases affecting the plant's overall health.

Wilting in Clematis recta is often a sign of water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage, which can impair the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Clematis recta may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to unsightly foliage, reduced photosynthesis, and potentially defoliation if the condition is severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Clematis recta due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and potentially plant death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Clematis recta. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from Clematis recta. If ingestion is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Clematis recta can lead to gastrointestinal upset and systemic toxicity due to the presence of toxic glycosides. The plant's effects can be particularly severe in smaller breeds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

If a dog ingests any part of the plant, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Clematis recta contains toxic compounds, primarily glycosides, which can cause significant physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with normal cellular functions, leading to gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children. In case of ingestion, seek immediate medical attention.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Clematis recta toxic to pets?

A: Yes, Clematis recta is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Does Clematis recta require support?

A: While it can climb, it often spreads as a groundcover and may not need support.

Q: When does Clematis recta bloom?

A: It typically blooms in late spring to early summer, producing fragrant white flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Ranunculaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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