Family:

Ranunculaceae

Clematis microphylla

Small-leaved Clematis

Other Names: Old Man’s Beard, Narrow-leaf Headache Vine, Kenam

Regional Subspecies:

n/a

Habit:

Slender-stemmed, woody climber or groundcover to about 3 m high. Densely massed leaves and profuse creamy-white flowers, Jul-Dec. Moderate growth rate. Lifespan up to several decades.

Habitat & Site Selection:

Highlands and woodlands, climbing on trees and shrubs. Prefers welldrained soil in full sun, tolerates drought, moderate frost, wet winter, dry summer soil, and full sun to full shade. Prefers 300 to 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina region.

Seed Collection & Propagation:

Collect early Dec-early Mar, seeds released in 3-14 days. Attractive feathery seed balls. Propagate from seed (fresh seeds germinate in 1-3 months) or stem cuttings.

Values & Uses:

Good habitat, fluffy seedheads used by birds for nests. Tough, starchy roots cooked and eaten by First Nations People, leaves used medicinally. Attractive ornamental for screening, groundcover, cascading over rocks/walls, and containers. Easily cultivated.