Swamp Clematis
clematis crispa
Also known as: ["Swamp Leather Flower","Wavyleaf Clematis"]
Overview
A deciduous vine with unique, wavy-edged flowers and interesting seed heads, native to wetland areas of the southeastern United States.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Clematis |
| Botanical Name: | Clematis crispa |
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":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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 (Group 3 pruning type).
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; cut back stems to a pair of healthy buds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates dappled light, especially in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid hot afternoon sun; adjust shade as seasons change.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, more frequently in hot weather
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use well-draining soil; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply after watering; avoid fertilizing newly planted clematis.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood stem cuttings or layering.
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 flexible.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; may take an additional season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a strong pair of buds; remove any dead or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove dead or weak stems annually.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; 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.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for vigorous growth.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid frequent shallow watering; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during growing season, increasing to twice weekly in hot/dry conditions; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold pockets.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; stop in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Clematis crispa upon ingestion. The plant contains compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic reactions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Clematis crispa by dogs can lead to toxic effects due to the presence of harmful compounds. These substances can disrupt normal digestive and neurological functions in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicClematis crispa contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological effects when ingested. These compounds interfere with normal cellular functions, leading to gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Clematis crispa require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade, especially in hot climates, and benefits from morning sun and afternoon shade.
Q: How do I prune Clematis crispa?
A: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or weak stems.
Q: Is Clematis crispa invasive?
A: It is not considered invasive, but it can spread moderately in favorable conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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