Pipevine Clematis
clematis lasiantha
Also known as: ["Pipevine Clematis","Pipestem Clematis"]
Overview
A deciduous vine native to western North America, known for its fragrant, pipe-shaped flowers and vigorous growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Clematis |
| Botanical Name: | Clematis lasiantha |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a garden, or large container with support
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°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, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy; cut back to strong buds or 12–18 inches from the ground for Group 3 types.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is well-draining; amend heavy soils with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in warmer conditions; avoid extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost in winter; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid burning roots; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root damage; avoid fertilizing newly planted clematis.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F / 18–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Remove dead, damaged, or weak stems; cut back to healthy buds or lateral branches; shape as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth; timing depends on the type of clematis (C. lasiantha is typically Group 3, prune in late winter or early spring).
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead or crossing stems; make clean cuts just above buds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom of the container or soil is moistened to a depth of 6–8 inches; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter to once every 2–3 weeks; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold can lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent cold-related root issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; heat stress may lead to dehydration and nutrient uptake issues.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; follow dilution instructions; avoid over-fertilizing; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicClematis lasiantha is toxic to cats, causing severe gastrointestinal distress and possible neurological symptoms following ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Clematis lasiantha by dogs can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects due to the plant's toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicClematis lasiantha contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances upon ingestion. The plant's irritant properties affect the digestive tract and can lead to systemic symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Clematis lasiantha require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Q: How often should I water Clematis lasiantha?
A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Is Clematis lasiantha deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its vigorous growth and climbing habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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