Clematis confusion

I recently read in your Plant Doctor column about the difference between old man’s beard and native clematis and that they flower at different times of the year. I took this photo during September in Kaikōura thinking it was a beautiful native clematis. It doesn’t look to me like old man’s beard. Or is it?

K Smith, Christchurch

it’s not old man’s beard, nor is it a native. This is Clematis armandii, from China, often simply called evergreen clematis though there are others that retain foliage throughout the year. it has handsome, glossy, dark-green, somewhat strappy leaves, so even when not in flower it’s a great space filler on a fence or against a wall. in spring it becomes a mass of 50mm diameter white, sometimes slightly pinkish blooms, with a light vanilla scent that attracts bees and nectar-feeding birds. it’s a strong grower and needs space unless you’re willing to prune it to keep it in check. If pruning is needed, the best time to do it is after flowering, cutting back old flowering shoots to main stems. Rich bronze-red, cascading new growth will soon appear.

Several named cultivars are available, including ‘apple Blossom’ and ‘Snowdrift’. Beautiful as they are, it’s worth noting most clematis are reported to be mildly toxic and may cause skin irritation to some people and pets, and may be harmful if eaten. However, I’ve handled lots of different clematis and made cuttings of them without experiencing any ill effects.

Learn about common houseplants harmful to pets, page 73.