Hairy clematis (Clematis hirsutissima, Fl. Amer. Sept. 2: 385 (1813))

Family: Ranunculaceae

Author: Pursh

Bibliography: Fl. Amer. Sept. 2: 385 (1813)

Year: 1813

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Clematis

Vegetable: False

Observations: WC. U.S.A.

Description

Hairy clematis, scientifically known as Clematis hirsutissima, is a captivating species within the Ranunculaceae family, notable for its unique and attractive appearance. This perennial plant, first documented by the botanist Frederick Traugott Pursh in 1813 in “Florula Americae Septentrionalis” (Fl. Amer. Sept. 2: 385), offers a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the flora in Western and Central United States.

The plant gets its common name from the noticeable hair-like structures that cover its stems and leaves, which give it a distinctive and somewhat fuzzy texture. Growing naturally in various habitats across the Western and Central regions of the United States, Clematis hirsutissima thrives in well-drained soils and can often be found in open woodlands, rocky outcrops, and prairies.

Hairy clematis features solitary, bell-shaped flowers that bloom primarily in late spring to early summer. These nodding flowers are typically a charming deep purple to blue color, adding a splash of vibrant hues to their natural landscapes. The flowers are usually about 1 to 2 inches in length and are complemented by the plant’s leathery, dark green leaves. After the flowering season, the plant produces distinctive fluffy seed heads, which further contribute to its ornamental appeal.

This species is particularly valued in native plant gardens and restoration projects, not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its adaptability and resilience. Though it may require some specific conditions to thrive, such as well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight, the hairy clematis is relatively low-maintenance once established.

Due to its unique characteristics and the historical botanical significance provided by Pursh’s early 19th-century documentation, Clematis hirsutissima continues to be a subject of interest both for botanists and gardening enthusiasts alike.

Common Names

Eng: hairy clematis
Swe: sippklematis
En: Hairy clematis, Hairy virginsbower
Sv: Sippklematis

Synonyms

• Anemone hirsutissima ((Pursh) MacMill.)
• Pulsatilla hirsutissima ((Pursh) Britton)
• Anemone patens var. hirsutissima ((Pursh) Hitchc.)
• Pulsatilla ludoviciana (A.Heller)
• Coriflora hirsutissima ((Pursh) W.A.Weber)
• Pulsatilla patens subsp. hirsutissima ((Pursh) Zämelis)
• Viorna hirsutissima ((Pursh) A.Heller)
• Anemone ludoviciana (Nutt.)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Oregon (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (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.

Flower

Taken Aug 5, 2008 by EOL − Mike Ireland (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 4, 2019 by Tiffany Brandt (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 3, 2020 by Mara Lorch (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 16, 2011 by EOL − RT Hawke (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 10, 2015 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 27, 2013 by EOL − State of the Rockies Project (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 14, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 14, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3033515)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60363-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Clematis hirsutissima Pursh)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Growth