Leaf type: Pinnate, leaflets heart-shaped and pointed at the base, sometimes lobed
Leaf margin: Smooth to toothed or crenate
Phyllotaxis: Opposite
Colour: Green
Life cycle: Perennial
Leaf (upper side)
Habitus & biology
The shoots of Clematis vitalba grow climbing or flat on the ground and can reach up to ten meters in length. They become woody at the base.
The leaf shape is variable. The leaflets can consist of three to five partial leaves. They are usually heart-shaped at the base and taper to a point. However, they can also be lobed. With smooth, toothed or crenate margins.
All parts of the plant are poisonous.
Distribution & habitates
The original distribution area is in Europe, West Asia and North Africa. Clematis vitalba is also considered to be a neophyte in some North American regions as well as in New Zealand and Australia (source).
It can be found in forests, forest edges, bushes, roadsides, walls and fences.
Botany
Clematis vitalba belongs to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) and is commonly known as old man’s beard and traveller’s joy.
