Botanical name:

Clematis afoliata

Common name(s):

Leafless clematis

About:

The clematis species afoliata is notable for its lack of leaves, which distinguishes it from other varieties. The plant features slender yellowish green stems that can extend and intertwine over rocky terrain and beneath low shrubs in arid, open regions across New Zealand, specifically from Hawkes Bay to Southland. This species flourishes at altitudes ranging from sea level to 1000m.

In the spring, C. afoliata exhibits a stunning display of creamy, fragrant flowers that attract attention. The plant can reach a height of approximately 2m, making it an excellent choice for vertical gardening, such as draping over walls or fences. Furthermore, its ability to thrive in dry conditions makes it a resilient option for gardeners looking to enhance their landscapes with low-maintenance flora.

Natural habitat:

Often found in open rocky shrub-lands and in South Island also in tussock grasslands.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North & South Islands from Hawkes Bay to Southland.

Height: 2m

Flowering:

October - November with a cream coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December – January

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant & Bee food

How to grow:

Easily grown from seed. Can be grown by cuttings but these can be fickle and slow to strike.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though