Small-leaf clematis
Clematis microphylla
Family: Ranunculaceae
What it is like
A twining creeper. It climbs through and over other shrubs. It grows 5 m tall. It has masses of tuberous roots. The leaves are made up of 3 leaflets on the end of tendril-like leaf stalks. Leaflets are 3-8 mm wide. It produces masses of white flowers. Flowers are about 5 cm across. It has fluffy white seeds. Plants are either male or female. Each flower has 4 prominent, pure white, petal-like sepals. Male flowers have 20 or more cream stamens. The fruit have long woolly tails.
There are about 250 species of Clematis mostly in the temperate Northern hemisphere.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows on islands, coastal sands and limestone. It is often in drier situations. It does best in light to medium soils and in a protected shady position. It is resistant to drought and frost. Melbourne Botanical gardens. Tasmania Herbarium.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The tuberous roots are roasted over the coals then pounded to make paste. CAUTION: Most Clematis contain an irritant poison.
Edible parts
Roots
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from fresh seed or stem cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Old Man's beard, Small-leaved Clematis, Slender Clematis, Taaruuk, Tarook