Goat’s-beard (Clematis aristata, Bot. Reg. 3: t. 238. 1817)

Family: Ranunculaceae

Author: Ker Gawl.

Bibliography: Bot. Reg. 3: t. 238. 1817

Year: 1817

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Clematis

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Queensland to SE. Australia

Description

Goat’s-beard, scientifically known as Clematis aristata, is a remarkable plant species that garners appreciation for its natural beauty and ecological significance. This enchanting plant is a member of the Ranunculaceae family, a diverse group known for their striking floral displays and numerous horticultural varieties.

Native to the vast woodland regions extending from southeastern Queensland to southeastern Australia, Goat’s-beard thrives in its natural habitat, flourishing in areas characterized by their expansive and lush vegetative cover. This geographical distribution highlights the plant’s adaptability to a variety of environmental conditions. Its presence across such a broad area of Australia underscores its resilience and the vital role it plays in the ecosystem.

Ker Gawl., a distinguished botanist, provided an early and definitive description of Clematis aristata in 1817, featured in the third volume of the Botanical Register. Ker Gawl.’s work remains a foundational reference for botanists and plant enthusiasts who study the intricate world of plant taxonomy and botanical illustration.

Goat’s-beard is celebrated for its attractive, star-like white flowers which bloom prolifically, creating a verdant spectacle during its flowering season. These pristine blossoms, coupled with the plant’s vining nature, make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers seeking to enhance garden walls, trellises, and arbours with a touch of natural elegance.

In addition to its ornamental value, Clematis aristata plays a pivotal role in its native habitats. It provides essential resources and habitat for various pollinators and other wildlife, contributing to the overall health and balance of the ecosystem. This ecological importance cannot be overstated, as it supports biodiversity and helps maintain the integrity of the environments in which it is found.

Ultimately, Clematis aristata, or Goat’s-beard, is more than just a visually stunning plant; it is a vital component of Australian flora with a rich history and significant ecological contributions. Understanding and appreciating this plant in its natural context offers insights into the intricate web of life and the enduring beauty of the natural world.

Common Names

Eng: goat’s-beard, mountain clematis, toothed clematis
En: Goat’s-beard, Mountain clematis, Toothed clematis

Synonyms

• Clematis discolor (Steud. & Lehm.)
• Clematis aristata var. dennisae (Guilf.)
• Clematis cognata (Steud.)
• Clematis aristata subsp. confertissima (Kuntze)
• Clematis aristata var. breviappendiculata (Kuntze)
• Clematis aristata var. longiseta (F.M.Bailey)
• Clematis aristata var. occidentalis (Benth.)
• Clematis aristata var. normalis (Domin)
• Clematis aristata var. sanderi ((Watts) Domin)
• Clematis aristata var. blanda ((Hook.) Benth.)
• Clematis coriacea var. obtusa (DC.)
• Clematis coriacea var. acuta (DC.)
• Clematis aristata var. integrifolia (Domin)
• Clematis aristata var. browniana (Domin)
• Clematis aristata var. coriacea ((DC.) Benth.)
• Clematis aristata f. stenosepala (Domin)
• Clematis blanda (Hook.)
• Clematis gilbertiana (Turcz.)
• Clematis aristata subsp. gunniana (Kuntze)
• Clematis aristata f. oblongisepala (Domin)
• Clematis aristata var. minor (Hook.f.)
• Clematis aristata subsp. normalis (Kuntze)
• Clematis aristata var. longiappendiculata (Kuntze)
• Clematis sanderi (Watts)
• Clematis elliptica (Endl.)
• Clematis aristata var. gunniana ((Kuntze) Domin)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• South Australia (native)
• Tasmania (native)
• Victoria (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Jun 29, 2022 by Pinto Joana (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 10, 2020 by Baobab Obesum (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 30, 2022 by Grace Hayne (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 16, 2020 by Rebecca Goodacre (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 7, 2022 by Nadziejah (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7665588)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:709495-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Clematis aristata R.Br. ex Ker Gawl.)

Specifications

Growth