Clematis (Large-flowered Hybrid), specifically 'Ville de Lyon' or similar cultivar
Kingdom: Plantae | Division: Angiosperms | Class: Eudicots | Order: Ranunculales | Family: Ranunculaceae | Genus: Clematis | Species: C. hybrid · Ranunculaceae (Buttercup or Crowfoot family) · Compound (pinnately compound) with three leaflets (trifoliate), deciduous vining plant
Species
Clematis × jackmanii (or Clematis hybrid), 95% confidence based on flower morphology and leaf structure
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately compound) with three leaflets (trifoliate), deciduous vining plant
Family
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup or Crowfoot family)
Shape
Ovate to broadly lanceolate leaflets, some featuring heart-shaped (cordate) bases
Size
2 to 4 inches in length and 1.5 to 2.5 inches in width; typical for large-flowered hybrids
Margin
Entire (smooth) edges, though younger leaves may occasionally show slight irregular lobing
Arrangement
Opposite; the leaves grow in pairs along the stem and are known for their curling petioles that act as tendrils
Rarity
Very Common; hybrids are ubiquitous in home gardens and nursery trades
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green upper surface with a slightly paler green underside; no variegation; some yellowing on lower leaves suggests natural aging or light competition
Venation Pattern
Pinnate to somewhat palmate at the base, with three to five prominent primary veins radiating from the leaflet base
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) to slightly leathery (coriaceous) surface with prominent venation that creates a textured, slightly puckered appearance
Description
A vigorous deciduous climber known for its spectacular 4-6 inch magenta-pink flowers with darker edges and yellow stamens. The plant uses its leaf stalks to climb supports, creating a dense wall of green foliage punctuated by star-shaped blooms, followed by attractive silky seed heads (achenes).
Key Features
Opposite leaf arrangement, twisting petioles for climbing, 6-tepaled magenta flowers with contrasting yellow anthers, and distinctive spiky seed heads with feathery styles.
Habitat
Temperate climates, preferring 'heads in the sun, feet in the shade'; well-drained, cool, moist, rich soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH
Geographic Range
Clematis hybrids are cultivated globally in temperate regions; parent species are native to China, Japan, and parts of Europe and North America
Condition Notes
Good; most leaves are vibrant green, though there are minor brown necrotic spots (likely environmental or minor leaf spot) and some chlorotic yellowing on interior leaves due to shading. Health Grade: Good.
Interesting Facts
The genus name Clematis comes from the Greek 'klematis', meaning climbing plant. They are known as the 'Queen of Climbers'. The fluffy seed heads seen in the photo are often called 'Old Man's Beard'.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as an ornamental trellis climber. Some traditional medicine used Clematis for skin conditions, but it is largely avoided today due to its irritating properties.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar for bees and hummingbirds; the dense foliage offers nesting sites for small birds. It is generally not considered invasive in its hybrid forms.
Similar Species
Clematis viticella (smaller flowers), Clematis montana (different leaf shape/early bloom), and Anemone species (which share similar flower structures but different growth habits).
Foraging Tips
Not foraged for food; look for it in late spring and summer when the vibrant flowers are impossible to miss against garden fences. Identify by the climbing petioles rather than tendrils.
Toxicity Warning
Moderately Toxic; contains protoanemonin which causes skin irritation (dermatitis) upon contact and severe mouth/gastrointestinal distress if ingested by humans or pets.