Family: Ranunculaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 543 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Clematis
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & SE. U.S.A.
Description
Curly clematis, known scientifically as Clematis crispa, is a remarkable vine native to the central and southeastern parts of the United States. This plant belongs to the Ranunculaceae family, a diverse group that encompasses various ornamental and medicinal species. First described in 1753, Clematis crispa has since captivated botanists and gardeners alike with its distinctive characteristics.
Characterized by its unique and intricate flowers, curly clematis exhibits a charm that is hard to ignore. The flowers typically display a bluish-purple hue, although variations in color can occur. These blossoms have a bell-shaped appearance, often with slightly twisted or curly petals, lending the plant its common name. The edges of the petals frequently showcase a ruffled texture, adding to the plant’s delicate aesthetic.
Clematis crispa is a climbing vine, meaning it requires support to display its optimal growth form. Gardeners commonly use trellises, fences, or other structures to support the vine, allowing it to spread and showcase its blooms effectively. The leaves of curly clematis are compound, usually comprising three to five leaflets which provide a lush backdrop to its striking flowers.
This plant thrives in the warm, humid climates characteristic of its native regions. While it is fairly adaptable to different soil types, curly clematis prefers moist, well-draining soils and can benefit from regular watering, especially during dry spells. It performs best when planted in an area that receives full to partial sunlight, allowing it to fully develop its blossoms.
Beyond its visual appeal, curly clematis also plays a role in its natural habitat by providing resources for local wildlife. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are vital for maintaining ecological balance. Additionally, the plant’s dense foliage can offer shelter for various small creatures, contributing to the biodiversity of the areas it inhabits.
In summary, Clematis crispa, or curly clematis, is a captivating vine that enhances gardens and natural landscapes with its unique floral structures and vibrant colors. Its adaptability to different growing conditions and its ecological benefits make it a valuable addition to cultivated and wild spaces alike.
Common Names
Eng: blue-jasmine, curly clematis, marsh clematis, swamp leather flower
Swe: krusklematis
En: Curly clematis, Marsh clematis, Blue-jasmine, Crisp-flowered Clematis, Swamp Leather Flower, Swamp Leather-Flower, CURLY VIRGINSBOWER
Ru: Ломонос курчавый
Sv: Krusklematis
: Swamp leather flower
Synonyms
- Clematis cylindrica (Sims)
- Clematis cylindrica var. lineariloba ((DC.) Alph.Wood)
- Clematis distorta (Lavallée)
- Viorna crispa var. walteri ((Pursh) Small)
- Clematis simsii var. micrantha (Kuntze)
- Viorna crispa ((L.) Small)
- Clematis simsii var. chrysocarpa (Kuntze)
- Clematis walteri (Pursh)
- Viorna simsii ((Sweet) Small)
- Clematis insulensis (K.Koch)
- Clematis cylindrica var. walteri ((Pursh) Torr. & A.Gray)
- Coriflora crispa ((L.) W.A.Weber)
- Clematis crispa var. walteri ((Pursh) A.Gray)
- Clematis simsii (Sweet)
- Viticella crispa ((L.) Bercht. & J.Presl)
- Clematitis crispa ((L.) Moench)
- Clematis lineariloba (DC.)
- Viorna cylindrica ((Sims) Spach ex Dippel)
- Viorna obliqua (Small)
- Clematis schillingii (K.Koch)
- Clematis viticella var. lineariloba ((DC.) Kuntze)
- Clematis simsii subsp. lobata (Kuntze)
- Clematis viticella subsp. crispa ((L.) Kuntze)
- Clematis viticella subsp. walteri ((Pursh) Kuntze)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jul 26, 2019 by Rebecca (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2019 by Cynthia Silvares (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 4, 2005 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 31, 2019 by Connie Koo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 18, 2019 by Frank Hübner (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken May 4, 2021 by Diana Joy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 16, 2021 by Danielle C (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 4, 2005 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 4, 2005 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 24, 2019 by Ryan Elliott (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Dec 30, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 22, 2013 by EOL − Michael P. Riggs (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 22, 2013 by EOL − Michael P. Riggs (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 23, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 23, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Feb 3, 2015 by EOL − James W. Beck (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3033593)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60317-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Clematis crispa L.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Vine
