Swamp leatherflower (Clematis crispa)

Also known as: Blue jasmine

Clematis is a perennial climbing vine that can reach lengths of 1.8 to 3 meters. It features distinctive, fragrant flowers that bloom in an array of colors, including purple, pink, blue, and white, throughout the spring, summer, and fall. This plant thrives best with consistent moisture.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Swamp leatherflower

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Vine, Herb

Plant Height

1.8 m to 3 m

Spread

90 cm to 1.8 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

White Purple Pink Blue

Images of Swamp leatherflower

Quickly Identify Swamp leatherflower

Vibrant blue-purple bell-shaped flowers with recurved sepals

Achene fruit with spider-like plumose tails for wind dispersal

Compound leaves with 3-5 oval leaflets, bright green color

Semi-woody vine that can climb or spread, reaching 6-10 feet in height

Delicate stems associated with 'broken branches' etymology

Scientific Classification of Swamp leatherflower

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Ranunculales

Family

Buttercup

Genus

Clematis

Species

Swamp leatherflower

Planting and Growing of Swamp leatherflower

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Swamp leatherflower?

Clematis crispa, known for its delicate beauty, prefers a well-regulated watering routine. Aim to provide approximately 500 milliliters of water per session, ensuring the soil is adequately moist but never waterlogged. The soil should be damp to the touch, but excess water should not pool at the base.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Swamp leatherflower? ›

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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Swamp leatherflower? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Swamp leatherflower?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sun exposure ranging from 4 to 6 hours is optimal for Clematis crispa, balancing direct and shaded conditions. This range ensures vibrant growth and blooming while preventing the stressful impact of both insufficient and excessive sunlight.

What is the ideal amount of sunlight for Clematis crispa? ›

How can I achieve ideal lighting conditions for Clematis crispa? ›

What benefits does Clematis crispa gain from ideal lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Swamp leatherflower?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 85℉

Clematis crispa thrives best within a temperature range of 65°F to 85°F. Maintaining this range ensures optimal growth and flowering. This range not only supports essential physiological processes but also helps in maximizing energy efficiency within the plant system.

What Soil is Best for Swamp leatherflower?

Soil type: Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Clematis crispa thrives in well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Ensuring proper drainage will allow the roots to breathe and help the plant absorb nutrients effectively, fostering vigorous growth. A nutrient-rich substrate ensures that Clematis crispa receives the essential minerals and organic compounds it needs for blooming. Boosting the soil with compost or organic matter can support its lush growth and flower production. The soil should retain moderate moisture without becoming waterlogged. This balance assists in keeping the plant hydrated, which is crucial during its active growing phase, particularly in warmer seasons.

How to Fertilize Swamp leatherflower?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Clematis crispa, it's important to give a balanced amount of fertilizer to promote healthy growth without overwhelming the plant. Use a water-soluble fertilizer at a concentration of one tablespoon per gallon, ensuring it is spread evenly across the plant's root zone.

How to Prune Swamp leatherflower?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start with clean, sharp pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease and to make precise cuts. Having the right tools ensures that you can effectively manage the plant’s growth without causing damage. First, remove any dead or damaged wood. Follow by cutting the remaining stems back to a pair of strong buds, about 12 inches above the ground. This promotes vigorous growth and a fuller plant structure in the coming season. After pruning, apply a balanced fertilizer to support new growth. Water thoroughly, especially if the plant is in its blooming phase, to keep it hydrated and to support its energy needs during its growing period. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Swamp leatherflower plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early summer

Choose healthy stems with no signs of disease or damage. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long with several leaves. For best results, take cuttings early in the morning when plant moisture levels are highest.

Use a well-draining potting mix composed of equal parts perlite, peat, and sand. This prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Moisten the mix slightly before inserting cuttings.

Insert the cut end of the cutting into the prepared potting mix. Ensure the cutting is upright and firm in the soil. Keep leaves out of the soil to avoid rot. Space cuttings so they don't touch each other.

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How to Repot Swamp leatherflower plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Clematis crispa should be repotted when you observe that the plant's roots are peeking out from the drainage holes. Another strong indicator is a noticeable slowdown in growth, which suggests that the roots have outgrown their current space. Ideally, aim for repotting during the beginning of the growing season in spring or as it starts to slow down in autumn.

Select a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one. The chosen pot should have good drainage capabilities to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. It's also advisable to use a pot made from breathable materials like clay to promote healthy root aeration.

Use a well-draining loamy mix, enriched with organic matter. The soil mix should retain enough moisture for the plant's needs, yet not so much that it becomes soggy. This mix ensures robust root development and healthy plant growth by balancing water retention and drainage.

Toxicity of Swamp leatherflower

Is Swamp leatherflower toxic to humans?

Swamp leatherflower contains protoanemonin, which poses moderate to severe toxicity risks to humans. Problems can arise from both ingestion and skin contact with this plant. After consuming it, individuals may experience symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, fainting, and convulsions. Commonly reported issues also include burning sensations and irritation in the mouth. In rare instances, ingestion of swamp leatherflower can lead to fatal outcomes. Skin contact with this plant can result in irritation, redness, and burning sensations. Given that this plant typically grows in marshes and swampy regions, it is advisable to exercise caution when traversing these areas with exposed skin. Wearing gloves is recommended when handling swamp leatherflower.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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