Lower Risk

Clematis microphylla (Small-leaved Clematis, Old Man's Beard)

(Clematis hexapetala subsp. microphylla)

This woody climber is native to South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania. It has been in the ornamental trade since 1851 and it has not become naturalised outside its native range, nor considered invasive anywhere in the world. Small-leaved Clematis can reach a maximum height of 3 m when climbing on other shrubs and trees. It produces creamy-white flowers from July to December, and the hairy fruits give the plant the other common name of Old Man’s Beard. Seeds are wind-dispersed and germination is low (22%).