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Clematis vitalba Traveller's joy Deciduous climber (1 Page of 5) The Clematis vitalba plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Ranunculaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Traveller's joy. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Clematis vitalba Common Name: Traveller's joy Family: Ranunculaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: All parts of the plant are poisonous[7], the toxic principle is dissipated by heat or by drying[65]. Mature Height: 15 Mature Width: 15 Habitat: Hedgerows and wood margins, usually on calcareous soils[7, 17].
Cultivation Notes: Prefers a deep moist soil with its roots in the shade[11, 200]. Dislikes poorly-drained heavy clay soils, but grows well in clay if grit is added for drainage[11, 200]. Dislikes light sandy soils[11]. Does well on chalk[1]. Dislikes acid soils below a pH of 6.0[186]. Succeeds in acid as well as alkaline soils[200].
Plants are hardy to about -18°c[202].
A twining plant[182]. The leafstalks wrap themselves around twigs and branches for support. When a side of the stalk touches an object, the growth on that side slows down whilst the other side grows at its normal rate - this causes the leaf stalk to entwine the object it is touching[186, 212]. It is capable of growing 2 metres in a year and can easily smother small trees and shrubs[186]. Another report says that it can grow 5 metres in a year[202].
When planting out, in order to avoid the disease 'clematis wilt', it is best to plant the rootball about 8cm deeper in the soil. This will also serve to build up a good root crown of growth buds[200].
The flowers are almond-scented[202]. They are produced on the current season's growth[219]. The plant is very amenable to pruning and can be cut back severely if required. This is best done in early spring[202].
A greedy plant, inhibiting growth of nearby plants, especially legumes[54].
Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits[233].
This species is notably resistant to honey fungus[88, 200].
For further Clematis vitalba gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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