Clematis aristata

Common Name:
Australian Clematis

Description:
Clematis aristata, commonly known as Australian Clematis, is a vigorous, woody climber native to the moist forests and gullies of southeastern Australia, including Victoria. This evergreen or semi-deciduous vine is renowned for its profuse display of star-shaped, creamy-white flowers that bloom from spring to early summer. The plant is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers occur on separate plants. Female plants produce distinctive, fluffy seed heads that persist into summer, giving rise to the common name "Old Man's Beard." In Melbourne's climate, Clematis aristata thrives in semi-shaded to shaded positions with well-drained, humus-rich soils. It can be trained over trellises, pergolas, or allowed to scramble over shrubs and trees. Regular pruning after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages vigorous growth.

Form:

• Climber

• Ground Cover (when unsupported)

Mature Size:

• Height: up to 15 m

• Width: 2–4 m

Aspect:

• Part Shade

• Full Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

• Flowers in Early Summer

Flower Colour:

• Creamy White

Key Attributes:

• Australian Native

• Bee Attracting

• Bird Attracting

• Evergreen or Semi-Deciduous

• Suitable for Trellises and Pergolas

• Low Maintenance

• Tolerates Heavy Pruning

• Fast Growing

• Suitable for Revegetation Projects

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Hardenbergia violacea (False Sarsaparilla)

• Pandorea pandorana (Wonga Wonga Vine)

• Kennedia prostrata (Running Postman)

• Lomandra longifolia (Spiny-headed Mat-rush)

• Acacia acinacea (Gold Dust Wattle)