Clematis is a genus of about 300 species within the buttercup family Ranunculaceae and is composed of mostly vigorous, woody, climbing vines and herbaceous perennials. Only four species occur in southern Africa. Their garden hybrids have been popular among gardeners. They are mainly of Chinese and Japanese origin. Most species are known as clematis in English, while some are also known as Travellers Joy or Old Man’s Beard. The small-flowered woody vines of this genus are used as creepers and the large-flowered vines are used extensively in the development of ornamental hybrids grown for their exceptionally beautiful flowers. Our indigenous Clematis and Clematopsis are much in demand in Europe. Clematis species are mainly found throughout the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, rarely in the tropics. The most important requirement for successful cultivation is a well-drained, humus-rich, permanently cool soil with good water retention. The plants like to climb up to the sun with their roots in the shade. Prune old twiggy growth in spring and propagate the species from seeds sown in spring.

Clematis brachiata commonly known in English as Traveller’s Joy, Old Man’s Beard and Wild Clematis is a South African indigenous deciduous climber that can reach up to 5m. Common Afrikaans names include Klimop and Lemoenbloeisels. It has slender, twining woody stems and bears masses of small, sweetly scented, creamy white flowers from late summer into autumn. They have 5 pointed petals, actually called sepals, and a puff of yellow stamens in the centre. These are so numerous that they create a snowy effect. The flowers are followed by large, fluffy, decorative seed heads that persist on the plant until well after mid-winter. The seed heads are formed by long, graceful, feathery tails attached to each seed, which assist in wind dispersal. The beautiful flower sprays and fascinating seeds make this a worthwhile plant to grow. It is also fast, easy and adaptable, and has many medicinal uses.